Can Oscillating Magnetic Fields Induce Beta Decay in Radioactive Materials?

In summary, the conversation revolved around the potential effects of an oscillating magnetic field on inducing beta decay in a test sample under pressure. The discussion referenced an abstract reporting on experiments that showed an increase in beta decay rate when exposed to intense, low-frequency electromagnetic fields. However, the possibility of artificially creating a strong enough magnetic field to affect beta decay is still uncertain.
  • #1
gdsandkes
6
0
Since beta decay emissions are affected strongly by a magnetic field, I am wondering (asking) if there has been any investigation into an oscillating (reversing) magnetic field, applied to a test sample under pressure, inducing a beta decay in a test sample.

TIA, Gordon
 
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  • #2
I have been searching for something along the line of what I have suggested and find this abstract which is the sort of thing I am asking about here.

Abstract – "Measurements are reported of the acceleration of the first-forbidden beta decay of
137 Cs by exposure to intense, low-frequency electromagnetic fields. Two separate experiments were
done: one in a coaxial cavity, and the other in a coaxial transmission line. The first showed an
increase in the beta decay rate of (6.8 ± 3.2) × 10−4 relative to the natural rate, and the other
resulted in an increase of (6.5± 2.0) × 10−4. In addition, a Fourier analysis of the rate of 662 keV
gamma emission following from the beta decay in the standing-wave experiment showed a clear
indication of the frequency with which the external field was switched on and off. A simultaneously
detected gamma emission from a placebo nucleus showed no such peak."

http://www.iop.org/EJ/article/0295-5075/81/4/42001/epl_81_4_42001.pdf?request-id=028447a3-0f68-484c-8e02-53f35beb5903
 
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  • #3
"Since beta decay emissions are affected strongly by a magnetic field"...

-> Are they?

They're influenced by the magnetic field created by the 60Co nucleus itself, but such a field is completely unattainable by human means - at least in a foreseeable future.

Fun, I read similar things on another forum some months ago. Seems that somebody is looking for rich gullible people.
 

1. How can radioactive decay be altered?

Radioactive decay can be altered through various methods such as changing the temperature, pressure, or chemical composition of the environment in which the radioactive material is located. It can also be altered through the use of external forces such as radiation or particles.

2. Is it possible to slow down or speed up radioactive decay?

Yes, it is possible to slow down or speed up radioactive decay. This can be achieved by controlling the conditions in which the radioactive material is located, as well as through the use of external forces such as radiation or particles.

3. Are there any potential dangers in altering radioactive decay?

Yes, there can be potential dangers in altering radioactive decay. Manipulating radioactive materials can be hazardous and must be done with caution and proper safety measures in place. It is important to consult with experts and follow proper protocols when altering radioactive decay.

4. Can altering radioactive decay be used for beneficial purposes?

Yes, altering radioactive decay can be used for beneficial purposes. This can include medical applications such as cancer treatment, as well as industrial and scientific uses such as in nuclear power plants and research studies.

5. What role does half-life play in altering radioactive decay?

Half-life is the amount of time it takes for half of the atoms in a radioactive substance to decay. It plays a crucial role in altering radioactive decay as it determines the rate at which the substance decays and can be used to predict and manipulate the decay process.

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