This discussion focuses on predicting the electrical potential and current generated on a copper plate by beta-emitting radioactive substances. The key formula provided is dN/dT = -xN, where x represents the decay constant calculated as 0.693 divided by the half-life of the substance, and N is the number of radioactive atoms present. Participants emphasize the importance of known parameters such as radiation level, plate geometry, and substance density in making accurate predictions. The discussion highlights the relationship between beta decay and the resultant electrical effects on conductive materials.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, radiation safety professionals, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the practical applications of beta decay in electronics and materials science.
wil3 said:Hello. Say that I were to take a beta emitting radioactive substance, crush it up, and apply it to a copper plate. Is there a way for me to predict the electrical potential and/or current on the plate (due to the emitted electrons) based on known data, such as radiation level of the substance, plate geometry, substance density, etc?