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20 July 2008

Answer to Question #618 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Basics — Neutrons

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

What is the gamma ray spectrum produced by ²⁴¹AmBe and ²³⁹PuBe neutron sources?

Although I have never seen a spectrum collected specifically from an alpha-neutron source, I am comfortable with the following answer. Excess energy present at the time of capture of an alpha particle by beryllium will be shared between the ¹²C recoil nucleus and the emitted neutron. As such, the gamma/x-ray spectrum that will be observed will be the same as that of the alpha-emitting radionuclide by itself. As an additional note, neutron interactions with surrounding materials can generate gamma and x-ray emissions separate from the source material. Robert L. Coleman Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Answer posted on 2 February 2001. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.