Energy reduction/deflection of beta particles due to isotope geometry

[Aakash Sunkari]

TL;DR

What is the general "degree" to which energy reduction/deflection occurs in a solid geometry vs a hollow geometry? Are there any modelling tools/software that can calculate this?

Hello all. I'm an undergraduate student looking to conduct an experiment with an isotope that undergoes beta decay.

I am curious as to the degree to which the isotope geometry will reduce the energy of/deflect beta particles emitted from the isotope. By geometry, I mean the "shape" of the isotope. For example, a solid disc of an isotope is definitely going to have more electron collisions/deflections than a thin, hollow, spherical geometry. However, I would assume that this would be to a lesser degree than particles emitted through alpha decay or fission.

Let us assume an isotope which decays 100 times in an hour with an average β energy of 2 MeV. Roughly, what percent energy reduction/deflection would we see in a solid geometry vs a hollow geometry?

I know this question is very non-specific, but I guess a general "degree" to which energy reduction/deflection occurs in a solid geometry vs a hollow geometry would be helpful. Additionally, if there are any modelling tools/software I could use to calculate this that you all are aware of, please do share.

Thank you in advance!

 

[mfb]

It depends on the mass, the decay energy, the absorption of the radiation in the material, the place where you measure the decays, and more. This would typically be put into a simulation software. Geant 4 is very common.

 

[Aakash Sunkari]

Thank you! I figured Geant4 would be the best tool to use, but wanted an outside opinion.