Introduction to Experimental Particle Physics

Abstract

This book brings together the most important topics in experimental particle physics over the past forty years to give a brief but balanced overview of the subject. The author begins by reviewing particle physics and discussing electromagnetic and nuclear interactions. He then goes on to discuss three nearly universal aspects of particle physics experiments: beams, targets, and fast electronics. The second part of the book treats in detail the properties of various types of particle detector, such as scintillation counters, Cerenkov counters, proportional chambers, drift chambers, sampling calorimeters, and specialized detectors. Wherever possible the author attempts to enumerate the advantages and disadvantages of performance. Finally, he discusses aspects of specific experiments, such as properties of triggers, types of measurement, spectrometers, and the integration of detectors into coherent systems. Throughout the book, each chapter begins with a discussion of the basic principles involved, followed by selective examples.

Physics of particle detection

“…(A in g/mol, N A in mol −1 , ρ in g/cm 3 , and σ inel in cm 2 ). This quantity has to be distinguished from the nuclear interaction length λ w , which is related to the total cross section…”

“…The detection and identification of elementary particles and nuclei is of particular importance in high energy, cosmic ray and nuclear physics [1][2][3][4][5][6]. Identification means that the mass of the particle and its charge is determined.…”

Physics of particle detection

“…This is feasable, because at fixed momentum the lighter isotope 3 He is faster than the more abundant 4 He. FIGURE 21.…”

Lifetime characteristics of Micro-Strip Gas Chambers

“…The aim has been to study the behaviour of MSGCs subjected to doses equivalent to those expected after 10 years of LHC running. For example, an MSGC at 1 m radius within CMS would accumulate a total charge of about 60 mC/cm 2] on its strips 3 . T h e b e n c hmark dose requirement generally demanded for MSGCs at LHC is 100 mC/cm, at a particle ux of approximately 10 4 s ;1 mm ;2 .…”