cragar said:Ive seen cloud chambers that just used circulating ice water. They had ice water in a cooler and then a pump that circulated the water around the base and back into the cooler. And then you wet the inside of the chamber walls with alcohol. I think you have to be 18 to buy dry ice, so you would need someone to buy it for you. What will be your radioactive source?
sophiecentaur said:Wouldn't 'cold ice', directly out of the freezer, at -22C be better than iced water?
A cloud chamber is a device that is used to visualize the tracks of charged particles, such as electrons and protons. It consists of a sealed container filled with a supersaturated vapor, such as alcohol or water, and a source of ionization, such as dry ice or a Peltier cooler. When a charged particle passes through the chamber, it leaves a trail of condensation, making its path visible to the naked eye. This is useful in experiments to study the behavior of subatomic particles and cosmic rays.
Dry ice, also known as solid carbon dioxide, is typically used in traditional cloud chambers. It is more readily available and less expensive than Peltier coolers. However, it is also less efficient and requires frequent refills. On the other hand, Peltier coolers use electricity to create a temperature difference between two plates, producing a cooling effect. They are more expensive but do not require refills and can be easily controlled to maintain a constant temperature in the chamber.
Yes, a 9th grader can safely build and use a cloud chamber with proper guidance and supervision from a teacher or parent. However, it is important to follow all safety precautions, such as wearing gloves when handling dry ice and not touching the Peltier cooler while it is in use. It is also recommended to conduct the experiment in a well-ventilated area.
The main advantage of using dry ice in a cloud chamber is its availability and affordability. It is also relatively easy to set up and use. However, dry ice has a limited lifespan and needs to be replaced frequently, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, it can be dangerous to handle without proper safety precautions.
Both dry ice and Peltier coolers can pose safety concerns if not handled properly. Dry ice can cause frostbite if touched with bare hands and can produce carbon dioxide gas, which can displace oxygen in a closed space. Peltier coolers use electricity and can produce high temperatures, so caution must be taken when handling them. It is important to follow safety guidelines and use protective gear when working with either of these materials.