The mystery of alpha spectroscopy

It has been said that alpha spectroscopy is more of an art than a science. Alpha spectroscopy, an art, not a science? The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language defines art as “skill that is attained by study, practice, or observation: the art of the baker; the blacksmith’s art”. Radiochemists can relate to that definition and would agree that “the art of the radiochemist” could be easily inserted into the definition when speaking of alpha spec sample preparation. So what is all the mystery about? This application note will take you on a journey to simplify and explain the complexities, i.e., mystery, of alpha spectroscopy that cause practitioners to call it an art form, rather than a science. The intent of this note is not to provide full technical explanations, but rather simple and concise explanations to complex and often-misunderstood theories related to alpha spectroscopy.