Contributions of Cherenkov Light to the Signals from Lead Tungstate Crystals

TL;DR

This paper investigates the contribution of Cherenkov light to signals in lead tungstate crystals, showing it can account for up to 15% of the total signal depending on orientation and particle type.

Contribution

It provides detailed measurements quantifying Cherenkov light's contribution to signals in lead tungstate crystals, highlighting its significance in detector responses.

Findings

Cherenkov light can contribute up to 15% of the total signal.

The contribution depends on crystal orientation and particle type.

Angular dependence and time structure confirm Cherenkov origin.

Abstract

Results are presented of detailed measurements of the signals generated by high-energy electrons and muons in lead tungstate crystals. A significant fraction of the light produced in these crystals and detected by photomultiplier tubes is the result of the \v{C}erenkov mechanism. This is concluded from the angular dependence of the signals and from their time structure. Depending on the orientation of the crystals and on the particle type, \v{C}erenkov light may account for up to 15% of the total signals.