written by Asma Khalid, Aleena Tasneem Khan, and Muhammad Sabieh Anwar
published by the LUMS School of Science and Engineering

In this experiment students use XRF spectroscopy to analyze a sample's elemental composition. From the characteristic X-ray energies, Moseley's Law, a proof of the existence of the atomic number, is verified. The atomic number increases in regular steps with an increase in the characteristic X-ray energy. We will use this relationship to find the Rydberg's energy constant and screening coefficient for K X-rays.

This lab is designed for the student to learn to:

1. differentiate between characteristic X-rays and Bremsstrahlung radiations,
2. use characteristic X-rays to identify elements,
3. acquire a spectrum, calibrate it and use it for qualitative (element identification) as well as quantitative (elemental concentration) analysis, and finally,
4. verify Moseley's law and the validity of an atomic number.

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Published June 28, 2012
Last Modified June 3, 2012

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