199.99USD

Technical Description

The cloud chamber operates by allowing charged particles (such as alpha or beta radiation) to ionize vapor molecules as they pass through. A supersaturated vapor condenses around these ionization trails, forming visible tracks made of tiny droplets. The visualization is typically enhanced using side illumination.

Core Components

• Sealed Chamber: Transparent container preventing contamination.
• Alcohol Vapor: Supersaturated isopropyl or ethyl alcohol vapor as the detection medium.
• Cold Plate: Metal surface cooled to around -30°C to maintain supersaturation.
• Radiation Source: Optional radioactive sample to emit ionizing particles.
• Light Source: LED or laser light to illuminate the particle tracks.
• Insulation: Material to help maintain temperature stability.

Specifications

Parameter	Typical Value
Vapor Type	Isopropyl alcohol (90–99%)
Cold Plate Temperature	-26°C to -40°C
Operating Pressure	Atmospheric
Chamber Volume	1–5 liters
Power Requirement	50–100W (Peltier or cooling system)

Types of Detected Radiation

• Alpha particles (α): Short, thick, straight tracks (e.g., from Americium-241).
• Beta particles (β): Long, thin, curved paths (e.g., from Strontium-90).
• Gamma rays (γ): Indirect detection via recoil electrons.
• Muons: Long, straight tracks from cosmic sources.

Safety Notes

• Ensure good ventilation due to flammable alcohol vapor.
• Use only safe, legal radioactive sources or natural background radiation.
• Handle cooling agents with care to avoid burns or frostbite.

Applications

Cloud chambers are widely used in:

• Physics education and radiation demonstrations
• Cosmic ray visualization
• Historical particle physics research