Help needed in calculating Flux of point source (NucEng)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the photon intensity from a point source of {}^{47}Ca encased in a lead sphere, specifically at a distance of 5 cm. The formula used for flux/intensity is \(\phi(r)=\frac{S_p}{4\pi r^2} e^{-\mu r}\), where \(\mu\) is the total microscopic cross section, \(r\) is the distance from the source, and \(S_p\) is the particles emitted per unit time. To determine \(S_p\), participants suggest calculating the number of atoms from the sample's mass and using the half-life of {}^{47}Ca, which is 4.7 days, to find the decay rate and photon emission rate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of radioactive decay and half-life concepts
  • Familiarity with photon intensity calculations
  • Knowledge of the formula for flux from a point source
  • Basic principles of nuclear physics related to gamma emissions
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the number of atoms in a 2 µg sample of {}^{47}Ca
  • Learn about the decay constant and its application in radioactive decay calculations
  • Research the relationship between energy emitted per decay and photon emission rates
  • Explore the effects of shielding materials, such as lead, on photon intensity
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for nuclear engineering students, physicists, and anyone involved in radiation safety or photon intensity calculations in radioactive materials.

stvoffutt
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A 2 \mug sample of {}^{47}Ca is encased in a lead sphere. What is the photon intensity 5 cm from the source? Use some of the tables in your book to find the required information.

Homework Equations



Flux/Intensity of photons from a point source:
\phi(r)=\frac{S_p}{4\pi r^2} e^{-\mu r}
Where \mu is the total microscopic cross section, r is the radius(distance) from point source and S_p is the particles per unit time.

The Attempt at a Solution



I can and have done these problems when the energy of the sample is given. However I have never done one where the weight of the sample is given. I am lost on this problem. My main question here is: How can I go from weight to photons/second?

I tried calculating S_p by using 1047.1 keV/decay listed in the textbook but I still don't know where to go from there. Ci:=decays/second. How many photons per keV?? Or am I over thinking this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Radioactive calcium 47 has a half-life of 4.7 days and emits a high-energy gamma ray (photon) of 1.3 Mev as well as a beta particle in its decay to scandium 47.[/color] - reference

If you know the sample's mass you can calculate the number of atoms present, and based on its half-life you can determine the expected number of photons the sample is emitting per unit of time.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
34
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
31
Views
4K
Replies
13
Views
3K