Modernization of Gamma Ray Physics Laboratory Program

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The project is to update and substantially upgrade the gamma ray spectroscopy component of the nuclear physics laboratory program for physics/applied physics majors and physics concentration education majors at Xavier. By acquiring a high purity, high-resolution germanium (HPGe) detector and by assembling modern computer based multichannel analyzer systems, significant improvements in gamma ray spectroscopy experiments will be achieved. Two such systems are proposed, one for germanium and one for sodium iodide. Each system are comprised of state-of-the-art hardware and software. Each system makes significant and appropriate use of two recently acquired IBM PS/2 Model 80 computers in the nuclear laboratory. Student experiments and research projects are enhanced and improved by the increased resolution of the HPGe detector and by the powerful analysis and library features of the software. Instruction in the principles of photon detection, gamma ray physics, and nuclear physics is being enhanced and increased and training in modern computer-based nuclear data acquisition and analysis techniques is being provided. Such training is important for undergraduates who will later work in high technology industries or graduate research laboratories. The spectroscopy systems also provide opportunities for more meaningful undergraduate student research projects.