Machine Design
  • Resources
  • Members
  • Directory
  • Webinars
  • WISE
  • CAD Models
  • Advertise
    • Search
  • 3D Printing & CAD
  • AUTOMATION & IIOT
  • Robotics
  • Motion Systems
  • Materials
  • Video
  • Data Sheets
  • Topics
    Industry Markets3D Printing & CADAutomation & IIoTFastening & JoiningMaterialsMechanical & Motion Systems Medical DesignRobotics
    Resources
    Machine Design ResourcesWISE (Workers in Science & Engineering)Company DirectorySearch Data SheetsContributeDigital Edition ArchivesCSIA Exchange
    Members
    ContentBenefitsSubscribe
    Advertise
    https://www.facebook.com/MachineDesignMagazine/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/10998894
    https://twitter.com/MachineDesign
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXKEiQ9dob20rIqTA7ONfJg
    1. News

    On the hunt for an elusive photon

    March 22, 2007
    Researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and four universities have made the first experimental observation of rare particles of light emitted during the radioactive decay of the neutron, a key building block of matter.
    Staff

    Researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and four universities have made the first experimental observation of rare particles of light emitted during the radioactive decay of the neutron, a key building block of matter. This work confirms theoretical predictions of this type of neutron decay and sets the stage for a new class of tests of basic theories in particle physics.

    The neutron is stable only in the nucleus of a stable atom; a free neutron decays into other particles — a proton, electron, and antineutrino — within about 15 min. This "neutron beta-decay" has been studied for decades without proof of the occasional photon (light) emissions predicted by theory.

    "This measurement is difficult because the neutron lifetime is very long, so hardly any neutrons decay at one time, and of those that decay, few emit a photon," says NIST physicist Jeffrey Nico. Background radiation is also intense and makes such observations even more difficult. The team, including researchers from NIST, Tulane University, the University of Michigan, the University of Maryland, and the University of Sussex (Brighton, England) determined that, on average, slightly more than three out of 1,000 neutron decays produce a photon above an energy level that is relatively low but still observable. The measured value has only about 10% uncertainty, which is considered remarkable given that this decay had never been observed before.

    According to the team, the experiment will lead to new tests of the "standard model" of particle physics and the search for new physics beyond it. Future upgrades to the experimental setup will reportedly enhance measurement precision and open additional opportunities for pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Read more details of the experiments at www.nist.gov/public_affairs/releases/neutron_light.html.

    Continue Reading

    Universal Robots Unveils UR30: Relief for Heavy Lifting

    A Technology Upgrade for Trucking Chicken Lights

    Sponsored Recommendations

    Smart Factory Solutions that Connect and Protect from Amphenol RF

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Stay Connected and In Control of Your Future Factories with Littelfuse

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Turn to NKK Switches for the Widest Range of Industrial-Savvy Electromechanical Switches

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Unlocking Operational Flexibility in Manufacturing with Industria IoT

    Nov. 28, 2023

    Voice your opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!

    I already have an account

    New

    Future-Proofing Manufacturing with 3D Printing

    5 For Friday: Salary Survey Optimism; A New (and Important) Acronym; and Ways to Unleash the Potential of Design

    Formlabs Introduces Fuse Blast for Automated SLS Post-Processing

    Most Read

    How Much Should a Bolted Joint be Tightened?

    Engineering Potential: What Determines Success?

    AI: Unleashing the Power in Manufacturing

    Sponsored

    Industrial Internet Of Things

    Connectivity for the Modern Needs of Industrial Robot and Cobots Designers

    Smart Factory Solutions that Connect and Protect from Amphenol RF

    Machine Design
    https://www.facebook.com/MachineDesignMagazine/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/10998894
    https://twitter.com/MachineDesign
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXKEiQ9dob20rIqTA7ONfJg
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise
    • Do Not Sell or Share
    • Privacy & Cookie Policy
    • Terms of Service
    © 2023 Endeavor Business Media, LLC. All rights reserved.
    Endeavor Business Media Logo