Modern Physics > Nuclear Physics DCS# 7D10.60
α, β, AND γ ABSORPTION
APPARATUS
survey meter 015B
wooden support with slots for barriers 214-01-A
Co-60 source 015B-lead cabinet
smoke detector containing Am-241 source 015B-lead cabinet
Sr-90 source 015B-lead cabinet
paper and lead shielding 015B

DESCRIPTION
Place different barriers between the sources and the geiger counter to show the effects of absorber material and thickness on α, β, and γ   rays.

 
NOTES
 
Am-241 is an alpha source.  Place it within a couple centimeters of the detector.  Inserting a piece of paper significantly reduces the count rate.

Sr-90 is a beta source.  The piece of paper will have no effect.  Count rate is reduced by a thin lead sheet.

Co-60 is primarily a gamma source.  A lead brick will noticeably reduce the count rate.