Alpha Particle Induced X-ray Emission in the Classroom
- Department of Physics, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79968 (United States)
We report on an experimental demonstration in an introductory modern physics course to elucidate the X-ray line spectra, and how they arise from transitions of electrons to inner shells. We seek to determine the effect of limited use of an interactive component as a supplement to a traditional lecture, and how it would improve the student achievement. In this preliminary study the students were exposed to traditional lectures on X-ray production and Bohr's model, they then were given a homework on the abc of X-ray spectra, after which they were given a pre-test on the materials, followed by an in-class demonstration, and a final post-exam. The gain, as measured from pre- to post-exams appears to remark the differences in how students approached the subject before and after the use of the demonstration. This initial study shows the validity of in-class demonstrations as teaching tools and opens a wide new area of research in modern physics teaching.
- OSTI ID:
- 20634232
- Journal Information:
- AIP Conference Proceedings, Vol. 680, Issue 1; Conference: 17. international conference on the application of accelerators in research and industry, Denton, TX (United States), 12-16 Nov 2002; Other Information: DOI: 10.1063/1.1619846; (c) 2003 American Institute of Physics; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0094-243X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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