Radiation Detection / Spectroscopy Project

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for non-invasive toxin detection, particularly through the interpretation of spectra from various materials. Participants explore concepts related to spectroscopy, including Raman Scattering, and the educational background of a high school student interested in pursuing a project in this area.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • A participant suggests Raman Scattering as a theoretically applicable method for toxin detection, noting its sensitivity to molecular configuration.
  • The original poster expresses a need for guidance on how to proceed with their project and mentions their current educational pursuits in mathematics and physics.
  • Another participant encourages the original poster to ask specific questions to facilitate more targeted assistance.
  • The original poster acknowledges the need to learn prerequisite concepts, such as Feynman diagrams, before fully understanding Raman Scattering.
  • A later reply hints at a potential interest from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the topic of toxin detection.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the relevance of Raman Scattering for the proposed project, but the discussion remains open-ended with no consensus on specific methodologies or next steps.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities of the methods mentioned, nor does it clarify the prerequisites needed for understanding the technical aspects of Raman Scattering.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students interested in spectroscopy, educators in STEM fields, and researchers exploring non-invasive detection methods may find this discussion relevant.

Sato
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Hello,

I'm currently a sophomore in high school and am interested in working on something to find methods of completely non-invasive toxin detection which I don't see out right now. I've noted that this is done by interpreting the spectra of different materials which could contain the pathogens/toxins and have read multiple papers/articles on MRI/NMRS, NIRS, and general spectroscopy but am not sure how to continue. I have also finished self studying trigonometry and pre-calculus, and hope to get through univariate calculus and my AP Physics B textbook by the end of the break. I also hope to enter the Intel Science Talent Search and Siemens Competition. Is anyone able to lend some guidance/assistance?

Thank you,
Sato
 
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Welcome to the Physics Forums! Good work pursuing education in your own time. Do you have a specific question?

I have heard of a type of scattering that is theoretically applicable for toxin detection. I think its called Raman Scattering since it is sensitive to molecular configuration.
 
Thank you, I'll take a look at that (after learning how to read Feynman diagrams, and reading seemingly prerequisite articles so I understand what the Raman Scattering article is even about).
 
It seems that the DHS has caught on to that.
 

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