50
_ JANUARY-JUNE 1954
of considerable theoretical interest because of their bearing on the
new Bohr-Mottleson theory of rotational energy levels in nuclei.
The program of this group also involves precision determinations
of the physical constants and precision X-ray spectroscopic measurements some of which have.a bearing on nuclear physics and some on
pure:research in the lower energy field.
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Neutron and Alpha Sources Available °
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Neutron and alpha sources made from} polonium 210 are’ offered 7
for sale by the radioisotope sales department of Oak Ridge National
Laboratory.”
Neutron sources are made by mixing polonium with any of the
neutron-yielding elements, principally beryllium, boron, fluorine, and
lithium. Certain neutron spectra are now produced by mixing target _ elements in neutron sources. When spectra determinations now in *
progress are completed, it will be possible to produce neutron spectra
which will conform more closely to desired specifications. The use
of neutron sources for starfing reactors, calibrating instruments,
logging of wells, and in research has increased materially.
Alpha sources are made with or without covers absorbing 10 to 60
percent of the alpha energy. The sources are madeto specifications
for individual needs in research and industry.
Biology and Medicine
The biology and medicine program of the Commission includes re-
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search activities relating to the establishment of control measures
against harmful exposure to radiation, and to the utilization of radiation sources. Application of close and careful safeguards to control
radiation hazards involves the integration of protective procedures
and techniques to safeguard the health of workers and the Nation in
case of an emergency. Utilization of atomic energy is directed toward
exploration and development of the beneficial effects of radiation in
medical, biological, and agricultural studies.
During the current period, progress was reported on studies of the
effects of all types of ionizing and nonionizing radiations on man,ani-
mals, and living plants. In particular, emphasis was given to the
investigation of the relative biological effectiveness of high energy
particles as compared with X- and gamma rays. Data are also included on the developmentand present status of instrumentation reT Inquiries should be addressed to the U. 8. Atomic Energy Commission, Isotopes Division, Post Office
Box E, Oak Ridge, Tenn.
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