Towards precision measurement of the neutron lifetime using magnetically trapped neutrons
Abstract
Preliminary results from a neutron lifetime measurement using magnetically trapped neutrons are reported. Ultracold neutrons are loaded into a 1.1 T deep Ioffe-type trap through inelastic scattering of 0.89 nm neutrons with superfluid 4He. Decays of trapped neutrons are detected using the scintillation light produced by the interaction of energetic decay electrons with superfluid helium. The neutron trap lifetime after the suppression of above threshold neutrons with field ramping is measured to be 831 +/- 58 s, consistent with other lifetime measurements. Studies of two leading systematic uncertainties: neutron absorption on 3He and the presence of above threshold neutrons are discussed in detail. Successful development of a 3.1 T deep Ioffe trap for the next generation apparatus is also described.
- Publication:
-
Ph.D. Thesis
- Pub Date:
- 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006PhDT........30Y