The exponential function model of radioactive decay and the concept of a half-life are used in nuclear experiments that appear in introductory and intermediate laboratories. In our interactions with students, we have found that students at all levels have significant confusion about both the term exponential and what is meant by a half-life as…

While designed for a senior undergraduate laboratory, the experiment illustrates the principles involved in the various Doppler techniques currently used in nuclear lifetime studies and demonstrates the versatility of the Ge(Li) detector in applications other than direct energy or intensity measurement. (Author/TS)

Describes nuclear teaching experiments and their distribution within the undergraduate curriculum. In addition, sources of information on published nuclear teaching experiments and on the supplier's of nuclear instruments, radiochemical and miscellaneous special materials are identified. Approximate costs for selected nuclear instrument systems…

Describes an experiment to verify the Compton collision formula and the angular dependance of the Klein-Nishina formula. Equipment used is a 1-mCi(137)Cs source, 2x2 in. NaI detector and a multichannel analyzer. Suitable for honor undergraduates. (Author/GA)

Describes an experiment for estimating the half-life of thorium-232. (SL)

This combined teaching and study guide is for use by students and teachers in post secondary programs for nucleonics technicians. It was developed by the author under the National Defense Education Act, Title VIII. The unit headings are: (1) Physics of the Atom, (2) Natural Radioactivity and Atomic Energy, (3) Induced Radioactivity and Atomic…

Describes the conduct of a self-contained course designed for biology, chemistry, and physics majors, particularly liberal arts seniors, with introductory physics and biology or chemistry as its prerequisites. (CC)

Presents an analog of radioactive decay that allows the student to grasp the concept of half life and the exponential nature of the decay process. The analog is devised to use small, colored, plastic poker chips or counters. Provides the typical data and a graph which supports the analog. (YP)