Leo's book [energy loss of heavy charged particles]

In summary, the conversation discusses the confusion over the two electromagnetic processes involved in the energy loss of heavy charged particles in atomic collisions. The processes are inelastic collisions with atomic electrons and elastic scattering from nuclei, with the former being the dominant process. The expert further explains that these processes are mediated by the electromagnetic interaction, which is one of the four fundamental forces of nature. The exchange of photons is responsible for the scattering of particles, and this interaction is also seen in other phenomena such as Coulomb repulsion and particle movement in magnetic fields.
  • #1
BUI TUAN KHAI
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Dear all,

I am reading the "Techniques for Nuclear and Particle Physics Experiments" of W.R.Leo.
I am confused when reading the section 2.2. Energy Loss of Heavy Charged Particles in Atomic Collisions (page 21).

At the beginning of the second paragraph (from the bottom up), it is written that "Of the two electromagnetic processes" ? Why is it written like this? I think electromagnetic processes are X-rays, gamma-rays, etc., but not charged particles !

Please give me some explanations or advises if you have.

Thanks in advance !
 
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  • #2
He starts that section "These effects are primarily the result of two processes: 1) inelastic collisions with the atomic electrons of the material. 2) Elastic scattering from nuclei".

These are the two electromagnetic processes he is referring to in that sentence, and saying that inelastic collisions on atomic electrons are the dominant process, as elastic scattering from nuclei happens much rarely, and does not transfer as much energy.

They are electromagnetic processes as they are mediated by the electromagnetic interaction.

Hope this helps!
 
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  • #3
@e.bar.goum :
Thank you for your response

e.bar.goum said:
They are electromagnetic processes as they are mediated by the electromagnetic interaction.

Hope this helps!

"mediated by the electromagnetic interaction" ? what do you mean about this? Could you please explain more clearly for me?
 
  • #4
Ok, so, as I'm sure you know, there are four fundamental forces of nature - strong, weak, electromagnetic, gravitation. Anytime a physical process happens, like the scattering of nuclei off of electrons, one of the four forces needs to be responsible for making the process happen. For instance, the gravitational interaction is what keeps planets in orbit. The weak interaction is responsible for beta decay of nuclei, and the strong force is what keeps nuclei together.

In the case of nuclear scattering, this is in the most part due to the electromagnetic interaction - the nucleus and the electron come close to each other, and exchange photons, which we say are the "force carrying" particles for electromagnetism, and the electron and the nucleus scatters off of each other.

Another example of an electromagnetic interaction is the Coulomb repulsion of two like charges, or how particles move in magnetic fields.

Does that clear it up?
 
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  • #5
It is fantastic ! Thank you so much.
 

1. What is the main focus of Leo's book on energy loss of heavy charged particles?

The main focus of Leo's book is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the energy loss mechanisms of heavy charged particles, such as protons and alpha particles, as they pass through matter.

2. What are some of the factors that influence the energy loss of heavy charged particles?

The energy loss of heavy charged particles is influenced by several factors, including the type and energy of the particle, the density and composition of the material it is passing through, and the distance it travels within the material.

3. How does energy loss of heavy charged particles affect various applications in science and technology?

The energy loss of heavy charged particles has significant implications in various fields, such as medical physics, radiation therapy, and space radiation protection. It is also crucial for understanding the effects of ionizing radiation on materials and electronics.

4. What are some of the experimental techniques used to study energy loss of heavy charged particles?

Some common experimental techniques used to study energy loss of heavy charged particles include ion beam analysis, nuclear track detectors, and spectrometry. These techniques allow for precise measurements of energy loss and its dependence on different parameters.

5. What are some of the advancements and developments in the understanding of energy loss of heavy charged particles?

Over the years, there have been significant advancements in the understanding of energy loss of heavy charged particles, including the development of theoretical models and simulation techniques. These have greatly improved our ability to predict and control energy loss in various applications.

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