Detecting Cations: Understanding the Role of Ion Discharge in Penning Gauges

  • Thread starter Thread starter terryphi
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on understanding how cations interact with cathodes in penning gauges, particularly regarding the detection of cation strikes. It highlights that the collector current is influenced by the number of cations hitting the cathode, suggesting a measurable change in current upon impact. Participants are curious about the specific mechanisms behind this current change and the behavior of electrons in the cathode during cation strikes. The term 'ion discharge' is also mentioned, prompting inquiries about its definition and implications in the context of penning gauges. Overall, the conversation seeks to clarify the relationship between cation interactions and current variations in these devices.
terryphi
Messages
57
Reaction score
0
Hello,

So, I'm reading up on penning gauges, and wikipedia (reliable source I know :P) says that the collector current depends on the number of cations which strike it.

So, the question I have is, how can you detect when a cation strikes a cathode? is there some sort of change in current? Why? I have some ideas, but I would really like to know your guys thoughts on this.

Edit: In the patent they talk about an 'ion discharge'. Does anyone have any insight as to what that is?
:S
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
terryphi said:
So, the question I have is, how can you detect when a cation strikes a cathode? is there some sort of change in current? Why?
What happens to the electrons in the cathode when a cation strikes?
 
I think it's easist first to watch a short vidio clip I find these videos very relaxing to watch .. I got to thinking is this being done in the most efficient way? The sand has to be suspended in the water to move it to the outlet ... The faster the water , the more turbulance and the sand stays suspended, so it seems to me the rule of thumb is the hose be aimed towards the outlet at all times .. Many times the workers hit the sand directly which will greatly reduce the water...
comparing a flat solar panel of area 2π r² and a hemisphere of the same area, the hemispherical solar panel would only occupy the area π r² of while the flat panel would occupy an entire 2π r² of land. wouldn't the hemispherical version have the same area of panel exposed to the sun, occupy less land space and can therefore increase the number of panels one land can have fitted? this would increase the power output proportionally as well. when I searched it up I wasn't satisfied with...
Back
Top