NEUTRON TOMOGRAPHY Meaning and
Definition
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Neutron tomography is a non-destructive imaging technique that utilizes neutrons to produce detailed three-dimensional images of the internal structure and composition of various objects or materials. It is a form of computed tomography (CT) that allows for visualization and analysis of an object's internal features without causing any damage to the object being studied.
Unlike other imaging techniques such as X-ray or conventional CT, which use X-rays or photons, neutron tomography employs neutrons as the primary source of imaging. Neutrons are subatomic particles which possess unique properties that make them ideal for imaging certain types of materials. As neutrons interact differently with different elements, they can penetrate through dense materials while being more strongly attenuated by lighter materials.
During a neutron tomography scan, an object is placed within a neutron beam, and detectors on the other side of the object capture the neutrons that pass through. By rotating the object and capturing multiple projections, a computer algorithm reconstructs a detailed 3D image, revealing the interior structure and composition of the object. This technique is particularly useful for studying objects with high hydrogen content, such as biological samples or hydrogenous materials.
Neutron tomography finds applications in various fields, including materials science, archaeology, geology, and medicine. It allows researchers to study the internal features of objects without causing damage or altering their integrity. Moreover, neutron tomography provides valuable information about the density, chemical composition, elemental distribution, and even the presence of hidden or buried structures within an object, making it an essential tool for non-destructive analysis and research.
Etymology of NEUTRON TOMOGRAPHY
The word "neutron tomography" has its etymology derived from two key components: "neutron" and "tomography".
1. "Neutron" originates from the Latin word "neutron" meaning "a neutral mass", which is derived from the Greek word "neutron" meaning "a neutral particle". This term was coined in the early 20th century by Ernest Rutherford, a New Zealand physicist, when describing one of the constituents of an atom. "Neutron" refers to a subatomic particle that lacks an electric charge, unlike protons and electrons.
2. "Tomography" stems from the Greek words "tomos" (meaning "a section") and "graphein" (meaning "to write"). It was coined by the Dutch mathematician and physicist Johann Radon in the early 20th century.
