Need advice on building a linear particle accelerator

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    Electron gun Vacuum tube
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a high school freshman's ambition to build a linear particle accelerator (DTL) and the associated challenges, particularly in determining the drift tube length. The participant employs the equation V=√(2eV/m) to calculate electron velocity, utilizing a TAG-101 signal generator and tri clamp stainless steel pipes for the vacuum tube. Safety concerns regarding ionizing radiation, high voltage, and vacuum integrity are highlighted, with recommendations to seek mentorship and consider safer projects like a cloud chamber or Millikan's oil drop experiment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly electromagnetism.
  • Familiarity with particle accelerator components, specifically drift tubes.
  • Knowledge of high voltage safety protocols.
  • Experience with signal generators, specifically the TAG-101 model.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and calculations for drift tube lengths in linear accelerators.
  • Learn about high voltage safety measures in experimental physics.
  • Explore the construction and operation of cloud chambers for particle detection.
  • Investigate the principles and execution of Millikan's oil drop experiment.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students interested in physics, amateur scientists exploring particle acceleration, and educators seeking safe experimental projects for students.

SamuelCunningham3456
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I am a freshman in highschool and I plan on building a linear particle accelerator (DTL) I need help finding out how to find the drift tube length. I use the equation V=√(2eV/m) (where V is equal to the velocity. E is the elementary charge of the electron 1.602 x 10^-19. V is the applied voltage. M is the mass of the electron 9.109x10^-31) to find the velocity of the electron coming from the electron gun. ( The attached image is the type of electron gun I have built.) I am using tri clamp stainless steel pipes as the vacuum tube where the drift tubes will be inside.

I have a TAG-101 signal generator witch can produce 1 MHz then ill find a way to plug that into a flyback transformer witch will be made by me because flyback transformers online usually have diodes at the end to suppress the AC. because i'm using high voltage and high frequency i will ground the stainless steel vacuum tube so it can act like a faraday cage to reduce potential electromagnetic radiation. I am aware of the dangers this project has i know it can produce Ionizing radiation when engaged

That's what i'm doing i would love to here how i can improve this and if some of yall can help me find the drift tube length.
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After a Mentor discussion, this thread will remain closed.

The issue is that it is very difficult to build a particle accelerator and do it safely. There are issues with X-rays and vacuum safety and high voltage safety that cannot be properly addressed in a discussion forum like PF.

@SamuelCunningham3456 -- it is good that you are so curious and motivated to learn more about science and experimental apparatus. Please be sure to find a very experienced and skilled personal Mentor there were you live to help you with whatever projects you want to build. You might consider building a cloud chamber instead or do Millikan's oil drop experiment, since those involve fewer safety issues.

Please be safe, and enjoy your pursuit of science. :smile:
 
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