Which material best stops the decay particles of Pb-210?

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ukkikki4
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Jan 02, 2014 9:04 pm
Occupation: student 11th
Project Question: So I built a cloud chamber to see radioactive particles decay, and I tried wrapping different materials around my radioactive source and tested again. I didn't notice any difference when I wrapped my source with both aluminum foil and a tissue. Was I supposed to see a difference? If I was, I don't understand what I did wrong.
Project Due Date: 1/9/13
Project Status: I am conducting my experiment

Which material best stops the decay particles of Pb-210?

Post by ukkikki4 »

Is my science fair project topic, but I don't really understand how this is gonna contribute to real life.
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deleted-2131
Former Expert
Posts: 1415
Joined: Sat Nov 08, 2003 11:27 pm
Occupation: Planetary Scientist
Project Question: N/A
Project Due Date: N/A
Project Status: Not applicable

Re: Which material best stops the decay particles of Pb-210?

Post by deleted-2131 »

Hi ukkikki4,

Radioactive shielding is a hugely important part of real life. The heavy lead apron you wear when the dentist gives you an xray shields you from radiation. Radiation shielding is also important for nuclear powered submarines, nuclear power plants, and medical devices that use radiation, such as some cancer treatments. It's also very important when designing spacecraft. This website discusses some of the history of radiation protection:

http://www.epa.gov/radiation/understand/history.html
All the best,
Terik
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