Cloud Chambers
an interactive
look at
Radiation
Abstract
This demonstration is an excellent means by which to help others come to
a better understanding of what is radiation thus being better able to put
its risks into their own perspective. The major portion of the demonstration
consists of the use of a large, hand built self diffusing cloud chamber.
This chamber allows one to view alpha tracks from small radioactive sources
as well as tracks from natural background sources
How do we view Radiation?
Whenever the word radiation is mentioned, thoughts of cancer and nuclear
fallout usually come to mind. Since Hiroshima, the word radiation has become
a very powerful and fully loaded word. Negative connotations have been
continually placed upon it. While many of the dangers associated with radiation
are true, often, emotional issues turn into overriding influences, both
for and against it.
If we have a good sense of humor, perhaps we can dissociate ourselves from
some of their influence. It is, however, hard to dissociate ourselves form
much of the information that has been filtered to us by the media. Perhaps
the best way to understand what radiation is and how it can affect us,
it to trace its history, and understand, rather than fear it..
A Brief History of Radiation
Geiger Counter \ Dice Demos
Cloud Chamber Demo and Construction
Types of Radiation
Radiation Around Us
NEXT