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Title: The E = mc{sup 2} exhibition

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/166510· OSTI ID:166510

The goal of this DOE-supported exhibition is to demystify Einstein`s formula E = mc{sup 2} by illustrating the interchangeability of matter (m) and energy (E), c{sup 2} being the exchange rate. The exhibition has two major parts, {open_quotes}matter into energy{close_quotes} and {open_quotes}energy into matter{close_quotes}, plus a video to connect them. {open_quotes}Matter into energy{close_quotes} has now been completed and has been placed on the museum floor. Positrons from a {sup 22}Na source are annihilated to produce gamma rays that are caught in NaI detectors. The viewer can alter the alignment of the detectors and observe the consequences for the rates of single and coincident counts. The viewer can also observe the effects of placing absorbers in front of the counters. Prototype explanatory graphics were placed around the exhibit and those will probably be changed after we have some experience with their effectiveness. The connecting video is in the process of being produced in collaboration with Fermilab. A cloud chamber for {open_quotes}energy into matter{close_quotes}, where gamma rays from a small Th source will produce observable pairs, was purchased and work to make the pairs visible has commenced.

Research Organization:
Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States)
OSTI ID:
166510
Report Number(s):
ANL-95/14; ON: DE96000985; TRN: 95:007970-0226
Resource Relation:
Other Information: PBD: Aug 1995; Related Information: Is Part Of Physics Division Annual Report, April 1, 1994--March 31, 1995; Henning, W.F.; PB: 207 p.
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English