Wilson Cloud Chamber: Radiation Detection & Build Tips

In summary, Wilson built the first cloud chamber in the 1910's using watervapour and adiabatic decompression to detect radiation from radioactive materials and cosmic rays. The device can be seen at the link provided. It is questioned how long the device can retain its watervapour, with potential answers ranging from milliseconds to hours. There is also discussion about strange returns on satellite images of hurricanes, with similarities to the cloud chamber. The mechanism of hurricanes holding water is different from the cloud chamber, as they actually suck up water. The focus is on how long still air can hold enough water to detect cosmic rays practically.
  • #1
gijsbert2002
14
0
Hello everyone,

in the 1910's Wilson build the very first cloud chamber based on watervapour and adiabatic decompression. With this device you can see radiation from radioactive materials and cosmic rays.

For a description see:
http://www.phy.cam.ac.uk/camphy/cloudchamber/cloudchamber1_1.htm [Broken]

I was wondering how long it would take for a device like this to lose it's watervapour? Would it be a question of milliseconds, seconds, minutes or hours?

Anybody who tried building this historical device?

Greetings Gijs.
 
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  • #2
What about the weird MIMIC returns from some of th latest hurricanes?

look at the bright red return on the lower left of the picture.

http://cimss.ssec.wisc.edu/tropic/real-time/marti/2005_TWENTY-FOUR/webManager/basicGifDisplay48.html [Broken]

After looking at this linke refer to the other links of Wilma and Katrina. They both have returns simmular to this one. What the heck is it??
 
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  • #3
I don't understand what you mean with this post. Do you mean that hurricanes can hold water really long?
That is a very different mechanism, they actually suck up water, just like cars and trees and stuff. I'm more interested in how long still air can hold enough water to see cosmic rays, in a practical sense.
 

1. What is a Wilson Cloud Chamber?

A Wilson Cloud Chamber is a device used to detect and visualize ionizing radiation. It consists of a sealed container filled with a supersaturated vapor of alcohol and water, which allows for the formation of visible trails left by charged particles passing through the chamber.

2. How does a Wilson Cloud Chamber detect radiation?

The supersaturated vapor inside the chamber is sensitive to ionizing radiation. When a charged particle passes through the chamber, it ionizes the vapor molecules, causing them to condense and form visible trails. These trails can then be observed and photographed to track the path of the charged particle.

3. What types of radiation can be detected by a Wilson Cloud Chamber?

A Wilson Cloud Chamber can detect all types of ionizing radiation, including alpha, beta, and gamma particles. However, it is most commonly used to detect alpha and beta particles, as they have a higher ionizing ability and produce more visible trails.

4. Can I build my own Wilson Cloud Chamber?

Yes, it is possible to build your own Wilson Cloud Chamber using simple materials and following a set of instructions. However, it is important to note that this device deals with potentially harmful radiation, so proper safety precautions should be taken.

5. What are some tips for building a Wilson Cloud Chamber?

Here are some tips for building a Wilson Cloud Chamber:

  • Use a container with a clear lid, such as a fish tank or plastic storage container, to allow for easy observation of the particle trails.
  • Make sure the container is completely sealed to prevent the vapor from escaping.
  • Use a radioactive source, such as a piece of uranium or thorium, to produce radiation for testing the chamber.
  • Include a source of dry ice or isopropyl alcohol to create a supersaturated vapor inside the chamber.
  • Follow all safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area.

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