High energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV)

In summary, the peak at 210 keV in the material's radiation spectrum might be caused by decay of the material.
  • #1
Crijn
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we have a question about highly energized beta particles (6 to 22 MeV). Is it possible fore this radiation to affect the nucleus of an isotope and not just ionize it?
We have a question about highly energized beta particles (6 to 22 MeV). Is it possible fore this radiation to affect the nucleus of an isotope and not just ionize it?

In our case a copper-65 and copper- 63 isotope become their unstable neighbors Cu-64 and Cu-62 due to the high beta radiation.
we could not find the theoretical explanation for this on the internet so we would be glad if someone could help out :)
 
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  • #2
If a highly energetic electron or photon of sufficient energy (e.g., binding energy of a neutron), then a neutron can be ejected from the nucleus. I'm more familiar with so-called photoneutron reactions in which high energy gammas can knock out neutrons from a nucleus, but I have seen discussions of MeV electrons having the same effect, although it is known as 'electrodisintegration'.

One could determine the binding energy needed to release a neutron by (mA + mn - m(A+1))c2 in appropriate units, e.g., MeV

For example, see - https://inis.iaea.org/collection/NCLCollectionStore/_Public/44/026/44026235.pdf
"Neutron contamination around LINACs for radiotherapy isa source of undesirable doses forthe patient. The main source of these neutrons isthe photonuclear reactions occurring in the LINAC head and the patient body. Electrons also produce neutrons through (e, e’n) reactions.This reaction is known as electrodisintegration and is carried out by the electron scattering that produce a virtual photon that is absorbed by the scattering nucleus producing the reaction e+A → (A-1) + n + e ́."

So, in one's example, 65Cu + e => 64Cu + n + e', and 63Cu + e => 62Cu + n + e'

If one wants to get exotic - https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2020NIMPA.95461747Y/abstract
 
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  • #3
thanks for the help you gave us!
we have continued with a measure of the given material that with a Scintillation counter which gives the following result.
1620823370027.png

this gives us a peak at 210 keV which is not measured at a background measurement. is there a good site were we can find the possible decay's that may have caused this peak?
 
  • #4
It could be lots of things, including x-rays from the detector itself.
 

1. What are high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV)?

High energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV) are a type of ionizing radiation that is emitted from certain unstable atoms, known as radionuclides, during radioactive decay. These particles have a high energy level, typically between 6 to 22 million electron volts (MeV), making them capable of penetrating deep into materials and causing damage to living cells.

2. How are high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV) produced?

High energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV) are produced through the decay of radionuclides, which are atoms with an unstable nucleus. During this process, the radionuclide releases excess energy in the form of a beta particle, which is a high energy electron. The energy level of these beta particles can vary, with some reaching up to 22 MeV.

3. What are the potential health effects of exposure to high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV)?

Exposure to high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV) can have various health effects, depending on the duration and intensity of exposure. These particles can penetrate deep into the body and cause damage to cells and tissues, which can lead to radiation sickness, skin burns, and an increased risk of developing cancer.

4. How can we protect ourselves from high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV)?

To protect ourselves from high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV), we can use shielding materials, such as lead or concrete, to block or reduce their penetration. We can also limit our exposure time and maintain a safe distance from sources of high energy beta particles. It is important to follow proper safety protocols and wear protective gear when handling radioactive materials.

5. What are some common sources of high energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV)?

High energy beta particles (6 to 22 MeV) can be found in various sources, including nuclear power plants, medical facilities that use radioactive materials for diagnosis and treatment, and industrial processes that involve radioactive substances. They can also be naturally occurring, such as in certain types of rocks and minerals.

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