On the randomness and correlation in the trajectories of alpha particle emitted from ${}^{241}$Am: Statistical inference based on information entropy

TL;DR

This study investigates whether alpha particle trajectories from ${}^{241}$Am are truly random or correlated, using statistical inference methods based on information entropy and spatial analysis to challenge the common assumption of randomness.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel statistical approach combining entropy and spatial analysis to test the randomness of alpha particle trajectories, revealing potential correlations.

Findings

Evidence of non-random patterns in alpha particle trajectories

Alterations in trajectories possibly caused by electric fields in source materials

Methodology enhances accuracy in particle emission studies

Abstract

Most particle detectors are based on the hypothesis that particles are emitted randomly upon nuclear decay. In the present work, we tested the hypothesis of the existence of correlation in the random trajectories of alpha particles emitted from ${}^{241}$Am source and the null hypothesis of random trajectories. The trajectories were clued through the registration of track in a solid-state nuclear track detector. The experimental parameters were optimized to identify the possible sources of correlation in the track registration and the detector conditions upon exposure and etching to avoid misleading results. The optimization included authentication of linearity in registration efficiency with exposure time to prevent coalescence of registered tracks. The statistical inference processes were based upon adaptive quadrates analysis of the spatial data, and entropy and divergence analysis of the quadrate data together with the null hypothesis of Poisson distribution of random trajectories. The clustering and dispersion analysis were performed with central deviation tendency, empirical K-function, radial distribution analysis, and proximity Analysis. Results showed a pattern of gained information within the registered tracks that may be attributed to the alteration in the alpha particles' trajectories induced by the strong electric field due to atoms in the source compound and encapsulation film.