Cloud Chamber Using Peltier Coolers

In summary, a person is looking for a good design for a Cloud Chamber using Peltier Coolers. They want to build a chamber to detect cosmic rays/background radiation that looks more professional than a Tupperware container on dry ice. However, it is noted that Peltier Coolers may not be as effective as dry ice, and that a more expensive cooling system may not necessarily be more professional. Suggestions are given to update the appearance of the chamber, such as using a custom built plexiglass box with aluminum plate bottom and brass trim, but it is also advised to specify any functional issues with the current setup for more targeted advice.
  • #1
FeynmanIsCool
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0
Hello All!
Does anyone have a good design for a Cloud Chamber using Peltier Coolers? I'm wanting to build a chamber that will be able to pick up cosmic rays/background radiation, that will be a bit more professional than a Tupperware container sitting on dry ice. Does anyone have a good design? -Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
I don't think the Peltier Coolers will be as efficacious as the dry ice. They are better at moving lots of heat at smaller temperature differences than at creating large ones and dry ice has the advantage that it sublimes at a constant temperature (at a given pressure). There's a difference between looking "more professional" and being "more professional". You do not want a cooling system that is just more "gee wiz" technical and more expensive (unless you're trying to justify a government sponsored budget).

If you're concerned with appearances update the Tupperware to a custom built chamber, say a plexiglass box with aluminum plate bottom. Trim it with riveted L-bar. (Brass is pretty!)

If, on the other hand, you have a specific functional issue with the Tupperware on dry ice then state it and you may get some good specific advice here.
 

What is a cloud chamber using Peltier coolers?

A cloud chamber using Peltier coolers is a device used to detect and track the paths of subatomic particles. It consists of a sealed container filled with a supersaturated vapor, which allows the particles to leave a visible trail as they pass through the chamber. The Peltier coolers are used to create a temperature difference within the chamber, allowing the vapor to condense and form the visible trails.

How does a cloud chamber using Peltier coolers work?

A Peltier cooler works by using the Peltier effect, which is the creation of a temperature difference by applying an electric current to two different conductors. In a cloud chamber, the Peltier coolers create a temperature difference between the top and bottom of the chamber, causing the vapor to condense and form visible trails when charged particles pass through.

What are the benefits of using Peltier coolers in a cloud chamber?

Using Peltier coolers in a cloud chamber allows for a more compact and portable design compared to traditional cloud chambers, which use dry ice or liquid nitrogen for cooling. Peltier coolers also offer precise temperature control and do not require any additional materials or maintenance.

What types of particles can be detected with a cloud chamber using Peltier coolers?

A cloud chamber using Peltier coolers can detect a variety of particles, including alpha and beta particles, electrons, protons, and gamma rays. It can also detect cosmic rays, which are high-energy particles from outer space.

What are some practical applications of a cloud chamber using Peltier coolers?

Cloud chambers using Peltier coolers have been used in particle physics research to study the properties of subatomic particles. They can also be used in education to demonstrate the behavior of particles and their interactions. Additionally, cloud chambers have been used for radiation detection and monitoring in nuclear power plants and other industries.

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