Cloud chamber 004

In this app concerning the Wilson cloud chamber, in design and function. In the cloud chamber, the ionizing effect of radiation is used to make the path of charged particles (such as alpha particles) visible so that it can be photographed.
As the piston is moved, adiabatic expansion of the air in the chamber results in supersaturation with water vapour. The ions created by alpha particles act as nuclei for condensation, forming cloud trails which indicate the path of the alpha particle.
The electric field between E1 and E2 is used for the continuous collection of stray particles.

In an explanation (button: explanation), by means of impulse and conservation of energy units, the Compton Effect is discussed here.

By means of a playcontrol, the animation can be stopped and moved fore- or backward whenever you want.

This application is suitable for the cooperation with interactive whiteboards and tablets.

This app you can use in English and German. If you want to search for further reading, use our “Recherche” please. It will let you find more information about the cloud chamber in books (Amazon) or other media`s (Wikipedia, Google) very quickly.