Duration: 9 am – 3 pm
Number of students: ideally not more than 24 (soon up to 32)
Target group: Upper secondary students
Various experiments in small groups provide insights into the generation, investigation and use of X-rays. Measurements and analyses are carried out using X-ray devices based on Bragg reflection spectra. Geiger-Müller counting tubes are used to measure the deflection of beta particles in a magnetic field, thereby explaining the generation of X-rays at European XFEL. By linking to school knowledge about slits and gratings, one of the most important analysis methods at European XFEL, X-ray diffraction, is also demonstrated using optical light.
The instructions are designed so that students can carry out all experiments practically independently. Students rotate through all three experiments throughout the day and receive a paper lab book to take home with them so that the tasks and results can be revisited in class, for example.
Experiments:
- Measurement of X-ray spectra (Bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiation, cut-off wavelength, measurements possible with different anode materials and crystals)
- Deflection of beta particles in a magnetic field (influence of the magnetic field on electrons and positrons, building principle of an undulator)
- Diffraction images (slits and lattices, determination of lattice constants, insights into X-ray diffraction patterns)
Recommended prior knowledge:
- Diffraction and interference (mandatory)
- Bragg reflection (recommended)
- Lorentz force (mandatory)
- Radioactive radiation (recommended)
Additional safety information on the experiments:
Both the X-ray devices and the sealed radioactive sources used are teaching materials specially developed for safe classroom use and each have a type approval. The X-ray devices are fully protective devices and the low activity sealed radioactive sources are designed to prevent any compound release and will be handled only by the Xcool Lab team. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
