Physics
Similarly, neutron activation is a standard analytical technique used to analyze elements, usually, metals. The sample is placed in a high neutron flux and in the nuclear reaction involved, a neutron is captured by a nucleus. If the resulting new isotope is unstable, it will undergo radioactive decay. This decay can be monitored and the element emitting identified by the identity and energy of the emitted particles. Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) is a rapid, nondestructive, instrumental, nuclear technique which is used for trace and major component analysis of various elements.
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Famous quotes containing the word physics:
“Now the twitching stops. Now you are still. We are through with physiology and theology, physics begins.”
—Alfred Döblin (1878–1957)
“Although philosophers generally believe in laws and deny causes, explanatory practice in physics is just the reverse.”
—Nancy Cartwright (b. 1945)
“... it is as true in morals as in physics that all force is imperishable; therefore the consequences of a human action never cease.”
—Tennessee Claflin (1846–1923)