Build Positron Accelerator | Safety Tips & Experiments

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    Experiment Positron
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and safety of building a positron accelerator for educational experiments involving a cloud chamber. Participants explore alternative sources of particles and safety considerations related to the project.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in building a positron accelerator and seeks suggestions for safe construction.
  • Another participant asserts that building such an accelerator is not safe or legal.
  • A participant mentions the potential use of americium from smoke detectors as a particle source and questions its utility.
  • Another participant cautions against using smoke detectors due to contamination risks and suggests using a lantern mantle instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the safety and legality of building a positron accelerator. There are competing views on alternative particle sources, with some advocating for safer options.

Contextual Notes

Participants express concerns about safety and legality without providing specific regulations or guidelines. The discussion includes assumptions about the availability and safety of various particle sources.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in particle physics experiments, educational projects involving cloud chambers, and safety considerations in experimental setups.

PhysicsDad
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Hello all,

My son and I have been doing experiments with a simple cloud chamber and I am curious what type of accelerator I might be able to build that would be strong enough to make positrons? Then I will use a magnet with the cloud chamber to show him that they are charged differently.

A note, I am aware that I will still need to research the proper safety precautions before actually using it.

Any suggestions or help with this project would be great.

Thank you.
 
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You will not be able to build such an accelerator safely. (Or legally)

If you want something positive, try an alphs source like a lantern mantle or welding rods.
 
Thank you.

I also understand that smoke detectors have a small amount of americium. Would that produce enough particles to actually be useful?
 
Why would you want to start poking around a smoke detector, and risk contaminating your house with little bits of amercium when a latern mantle costs a dollar or two?
 

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