On the Absorption of γ-Radiation by Absorbers with a Thickness Equal to a Multiple of the Mean Free Path and Analogies with Standing Waves in a Sound Resonance Tube

Abstract

This article addresses the phenomenon of the decreased absorption of γ-radiation when the thickness of the absorber equals a multiple of the mean free path, as observed in relevant laboratory experiments with various absorbing materials. This phenomenon can be compared with the periodic peaks in intensity in an open-ended sound tube that appear at multiples of half wavelength. This could suggest that there is analogy between the two physical systems that are the γ-ray absorber and the sound wave resonance tube. More similarities between the two systems are also presented.

Keywords

• γ-ray absorption
• buildup effect
• sound resonance tubes
• scientific analogies