Help getting my Cloud Chamber to work please

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on troubleshooting a cloud chamber setup, specifically regarding the detection of particle trails using isopropyl alcohol and radioactive uranite. Despite achieving a supersaturated layer of isopropyl alcohol, the user reports no visible trails, even with high levels of radioactivity (≈45000cpm). The discussion highlights the importance of a high-voltage (HV) power source in the chamber's operation, raising concerns about its use in a pure alcohol atmosphere. Users are encouraged to explore existing threads for additional insights and solutions.

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  • Understanding of cloud chamber physics
  • Knowledge of high-voltage (HV) power sources
  • Familiarity with supersaturation techniques using isopropyl alcohol
  • Experience with radioactive materials and their detection
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  • Research the role of high-voltage power sources in cloud chamber functionality
  • Investigate alternative methods for achieving supersaturation in cloud chambers
  • Learn about different radioactive materials and their detection capabilities
  • Explore troubleshooting techniques for cloud chamber visibility issues
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Hobbyists, educators, and researchers interested in particle physics, cloud chamber construction, and radiation detection techniques.

Tristan_Ruel
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TL;DR
I've built a cloud chamber, I have saturated isopropyl alcohol layer, but no radiations are showing.
Hello!

I'm currently building a cloud chamber, my end goal is to make it powered by Peltier chips but that won't happen until I can make it work with dry ice. I've been able to achieve a supersaturated layer of isopropyl alcohol in the chamber, however, even with very radioactive uranite (≈45000cpm) and with less radioactive uranite (≈1000cpm), I'm not detecting any trails. Super conflicting as I have a great alcohol layer... anyone have any idea what might be going on?
Also, is a HV power source absolutely critical, idk, something with putting HV in a pure alcohol atmosphere just doesn't sit right for me.
 
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5EC5EC4D-D0F1-4920-AF50-D40339BB884A.jpeg

Here's what it looks like, doesn't show much or help much but just in case. This is with it on btw.

P.s. ik it would be easier to see the trails left behind on a black backdrop, I tried on one, still nothing, I’m using aluminum foil here for better contact with the dry ice hoping that would help
 
On the top right corner of the screen, click on the button labeled "SEARCH"
In the "Keywords" field type Cloud Chamber
At the bottom of the screen, click the blue "Search" button

There are about 40 separate threads addressing your problem(s) that should answer many of your questions... and suggest many tips.

Please keep us updated on your progress or any specific questions you may have.

Cheers,
Tom
 
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