Needing elemental alpha particle scattering/peak resonances

In summary, the conversation discussed the use of an ion beam analysis lab on campus for compositional analysis and the challenges of finding scattering resonances for certain elements. The lab has provided tables to compensate for overlapping peaks, but they are not complete. The search for a more thorough listing of elements and alpha particle scattering resonance energies has been unsuccessful. The experiments have not been carried out yet, but one of them is expected to produce small amounts of Boron, which can be detected by knowing the peak resonance energy of the incident alpha particles against a lithium-boron target. The idea is similar to the resonance for oxygen at 3.05~3.06MeV. The conversation also mentioned the difficulty in finding the resonance energy for Boron,
  • #1
mesa
Gold Member
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On our campus we have an ion beam analysis lab. It is used for compositional analysis through the firing of alpha particles at MeV energies at target samples (RBS). From here it is a simple matter of back scattering kinematics to calculate atomic masses thereby giving the general composition of the test samples.

There are many cases for overlap of the peaks in channels and to compensate some tables have been provided by the lab for finding scattering (peak) resonances of certain elements to increase mass resolution, however it is by no means complete.

It would be helpful to have a more thorough listing of elements/alpha particle scattering resonance energies; my search has so far proven futile. Does anyone have a link or know of a good resource for this information?
 
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  • #2
what peaks were you given? and what was your signal like?
 
  • #3
ChrisVer said:
what peaks were you given? and what was your signal like?

The experiments have not been carried out yet, however the expectation for one of them is the production of small amounts of Boron which will then need to be detected. If I know the peak resonance energy of the incident alpha particles against a lithium-boron target then it would make it easier to spot trace amounts of said element.

The idea is similar to the resonance/peak for oxygen with the beam running 3.05~3.06MeV, this yields a huge 'spike' in the data where we might not normally be able to see this element. The idea is the same here.
 
  • #4
3.93MeV is the resonance energy for Boron, a surprisingly difficult value to find! If anyone else has others to add please do so, the help is always appreciated :)
 

What is elemental alpha particle scattering?

Elemental alpha particle scattering is a phenomenon in which alpha particles (consisting of two protons and two neutrons) interact with the nuclei of atoms, causing them to scatter in different directions. This scattering can provide valuable information about the structure and composition of the atoms being studied.

How does alpha particle scattering lead to peak resonances?

Peak resonances occur in alpha particle scattering when the energy of the alpha particles is similar to the energy levels of the atomic nuclei. This causes a significant increase in the scattering cross section, resulting in a peak in the scattering data.

Why is it important to study elemental alpha particle scattering and peak resonances?

Studying elemental alpha particle scattering and peak resonances can provide valuable insights into the structure and properties of different elements and their isotopes. This information is useful for understanding fundamental principles of nuclear physics and for practical applications such as nuclear energy and medical imaging.

What experimental techniques are used to study elemental alpha particle scattering?

There are several experimental techniques for studying elemental alpha particle scattering, including elastic scattering, inelastic scattering, and alpha-gamma coincidence measurements. These techniques involve accelerating alpha particles and detecting their scattering patterns and energies to determine information about the atoms being studied.

What advances have been made in understanding elemental alpha particle scattering and peak resonances?

In recent years, advancements in technology and theoretical models have greatly improved our understanding of elemental alpha particle scattering and peak resonances. These include developments in detectors, accelerators, and computational tools that allow for more precise measurements and calculations of scattering data. These advances have also helped to expand our knowledge of nuclear structure and the behavior of subatomic particles.

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