A Hands-on Experience with a Novel Scintillation Detector for Particle Physics

TL;DR

This paper presents the design and construction of a practical, educational scintillation detector for particle physics, enabling students to gain hands-on experience with modern detector technology using accessible tools.

Contribution

It introduces a feasible, low-cost detector prototype suitable for educational purposes, utilizing readily available materials and technology.

Findings

Successfully built a functional particle detector

Demonstrated detector operation with accessible electronics

Provided a practical educational tool for physics students

Abstract

Particle physics, when taught in the classroom or lecture theatre, suffers from a lack of practical experience by students. Thus, we describe the construction of a fully working small particle physics detector using state of the art detector technology for demonstration in educational context. Most of our setup can be constructed with relatively moderate effort, given that a home-level 3D-printer, a photosensor and readout electronics (at least an oscilloscope) are available.