Question regarding a decay spectrum graph

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the concept of a channel in the context of decay spectrum graphs. A multi-channel analyzer (MCA) is utilized to group pulses generated by a detector based on their height, which correlates to the energy deposited. Each channel number corresponds to a specific pulse height, functioning similarly to a histogram. Calibration of these channels is performed using a spectrum of known energy decays to ensure accuracy in measurements.

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  • Understanding of multi-channel analyzers (MCA)
  • Knowledge of pulse height analysis
  • Familiarity with energy calibration techniques
  • Basic concepts of decay spectrum graphs
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  • Research the operation and applications of multi-channel analyzers (MCA)
  • Explore pulse height analysis techniques in radiation detection
  • Learn about energy calibration methods for decay spectrum graphs
  • Investigate histogram representation of pulse data in spectroscopy
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Researchers, physicists, and engineers working in radiation detection and spectroscopy, particularly those involved in analyzing decay spectra and calibrating measurement systems.

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Homework Statement
What the exact meaning or definition of « channel » written as the axis label in the graph?
Relevant Equations
It is a figure of the alpha particle groups produced in the decay of Pu(238)
I am not sure what is the description of Channel.
 

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The detector being used produces pulses of different heights, depending on how much energy is deposited in the detector. The pulses are then fed into a device called a multi-channel analyzer, which groups the pulses according to height, with the lowest pulse heights going into the first channel and the highest pulse heights going into the highest numbered channel. In that sense it's like a histogram. So the channel is just a number that corresponds to pulse height, which corresponds to energy. Then you calibrate the channels with a spectrum with decays of a known energy, like the one you show. Does that make sense?
 
phyzguy said:
The detector being used produces pulses of different heights, depending on how much energy is deposited in the detector. The pulses are then fed into a device called a multi-channel analyzer, which groups the pulses according to height, with the lowest pulse heights going into the first channel and the highest pulse heights going into the highest numbered channel. In that sense it's like a histogram. So the channel is just a number that corresponds to pulse height, which corresponds to energy. Then you calibrate the channels with a spectrum with decays of a known energy, like the one you show. Does that make sense?
Yes, thanks a lot, now I totally understand.
 

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