Gamma Spectrum Analysis Experiment

1. What you will learn and experience

• Basic Understanding of Radiation Measurement: Learn how radiation interacts with detectors and how those interactions are converted into electrical signals.
• Understanding NaI(Tl) Detector Principles: Explore how scintillation and the photomultiplier tube (PMT) convert gamma rays into measurable signals.
• Energy Spectrum Analysis: Measure gamma-ray energy spectra from standard sources ($^{137}$Cs, $^{60}$Co), and identify key features such as photopeaks and the Compton continuum.
• Detector Energy Calibration Practice: Calibrate the detector by correlating channel numbers with known energy values from standard sources.
• Analyzing Environmental Samples: Identify naturally occurring radionuclides in real soil samples, such as Potassium-40 ($^{40}$K), and members of the Uranium ($^{238}$U) and Thorium ($^{232}$Th) decay series.
• Enhancing Data Analysis and Report Writing Skills: Organize and analyze experimental data, and structure your findings into a coherent scientific report.

2. Class Procedure

1. Basic Theory Study: Learn essential concepts such as the interaction of gamma rays with matter and the operation of the NaI(Tl) detector.
2. Hands-on Experiment: Set up the detector system and measure gamma-ray spectra from known radiation sources.
3. Environmental Sample Measurement: Calibrate the detector, then analyze real-world samples for gamma-ray emission.
4. Data Analysis: Identify peaks and correlate them with characteristic gamma energies of known isotopes.
5. Results Report: Submit a final report detailing methods, findings, and conclusions.

3. What you will gain

This experiment provides foundational skills in radiation detection and spectroscopy. You will bridge theory and practice using real detectors, and gain insights into environmental radioactivity. This experience is invaluable for those pursuing careers in nuclear power, medical physics, environmental science, and radiation safety.