Over the years, researchers have implemented various innovative techniques to explore and understand the wonders of ancient civilizations. Recently, a novel methodology has come to the forefront, involving the use of Muons- subatomic particles from outer space, to scrutinize the fortress wall of the historic city of Xi’an in China.
Exploring Xi’an with Muons
Scientists have discovered an ingenious method employing cosmic particles to study the centuries-old wall of Xi’an. The Cosmic Ray Muon Imaging System (CORMIS), a state-of-the-art muon detector, has been at the heart of this examination.
A Closer Look at Muons
Muons are subatomic particles that originate from outer space and shower continuously onto Earth. Caused by collisions between the Earth’s atmospheric particles and high-energy cosmic rays, these particles resemble electrons but carry a mass 207 times greater. Due to their enormous weight, muons can penetrate hundreds of meters of rock or other materials before getting absorbed or decaying. This remarkable ability makes them superior to electrons, which can only penetrate a few centimeters into matter. However, muons are highly unstable, and their existence is fleeting, lasting merely 2.2 microseconds.
The Power of Muography
The ability to scan large structures using muons’ penetrative powers is termed muography. The technique offers unique advantages for examining vast archaeological sites, making it an attractive tool for archaeologists worldwide.
Muography in Archaeology
Muography made its debut in archaeology in the late 1960s when Luis Alvarez, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, collaborated with Egyptologists. They employed the technique to investigate hidden chambers within the Pyramid of Khafre in Giza. Since then, its popularity has grown exponentially among archaeologists.
Beyond the Realm of Archaeology
The utility of muography extends beyond archaeological explorations. The technique has found applications in customs security and aided in studying natural phenomenon like volcanoes. For instance, in 2015, scientists used muography to examine the internals of the Fukushima nuclear reactors post the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Furthermore, researchers at present are using muography to investigate Mount Vesuvius, an infamous volcano in Italy.
The use of muons and the technique of muography have offered scientists a novel way to explore not just ancient structures but also modern-day phenomena. Its unique advantages could pave the way for scientific advancements in the future.
