Homemade Particle Accelerator?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and safety of building a homemade particle accelerator, particularly from the perspective of a 15-year-old with a background in physics. Participants explore the potential risks, legal implications, and practical considerations involved in such a project.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in building a particle accelerator and seeks advice on risks, feasibility, time, and cost.
  • Another participant notes that previous discussions on this topic often lead to closure due to safety concerns.
  • A third participant emphasizes the dangers associated with high voltage electricity and radiation, suggesting that the project is too risky for amateurs.
  • A later reply references a previous thread that aligns with the warnings about the dangers of such projects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the dangers associated with building a particle accelerator at home, but there is no consensus on the feasibility or the appropriateness of discussing the project further.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed discussion on specific risks, legal considerations, and the technical expertise required to safely undertake such a project.

Amsingh123
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Hi PF,

I've been looking to do a physics project for a while, and I thought about trying to build a particle accelerator at home. I know there's a lot of potential risks involved, and I imagine some legal issues, but is it plausible for a 15 year old to build a crude particle accelerator at home, with minimal risks? I know all the math and physics (calculus, differential equations, electromagnetism, special relativity, etc
.) and how to actually build the accelerator. I'm wondering:
1. What are the potential risks and how can I avoid them?
2. Is it realistic for a 15 year old to even try?
3. How long would it take and how much would it cost?
Thanks for all of your help PF.
 
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There have been several threads on this forum about that topic but as I recall, they all end up getting closed because it's too dangerous. Try a forum search.
 
A particle accelerator is a dangerous project involving high voltage electricity and radiation and can easily kill or injure you or someone else. I'm not a mod, but I don't believe PF rules allow us to discuss dangerous projects, especially with amateurs who do not have the required expertise and knowledge to safely build them.
 

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