Have you tried the Cloud Chamber Experiment?

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SUMMARY

The Cloud Chamber Experiment involves using either pure isopropyl or pure ethyl alcohol as a medium for particle detection. The experiment can be repeated by simply replacing the dry ice and alcohol. Effective photography of the trails requires specific techniques to capture the particle paths clearly. Identifying the particles forming each trail relies on understanding their characteristics and behavior in the chamber.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of particle physics and behavior
  • Familiarity with cloud chamber setup and operation
  • Knowledge of photographic techniques for low-light conditions
  • Experience with dry ice handling and safety protocols
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between isopropyl and ethyl alcohol for cloud chambers
  • Learn techniques for photographing particle trails in cloud chambers
  • Explore methods for identifying particles in cloud chamber experiments
  • Investigate safety measures for handling dry ice and alcohol
USEFUL FOR

Physics enthusiasts, educators conducting experiments, hobbyists interested in particle detection, and photographers looking to capture scientific phenomena.

connorp
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Has anyone here ever done this experiment? A buddy of mine and I were thinking of setting this up but we had a few questions first.

Is it better to use pure isopropyl or pure ethyl alcohol? I have read both from different sources.
To conduct this more than once, do you just have to replace the dry ice and alcohol?
What is the best way to photograph the trails?
How do you recognize which particles are forming each trail?

Hope I posted this in the right section. If not, feel free to move it. Thanks for all the help.
 
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