The NSS Bulletin - ISSN 1090-6924
Volume 42 Number 3: 39-41 - July 1980
A publication of the National Speleological Society

Alpha Radiation Levels in Two Caves Related to External Air Temperature and Atmospheric Pressure
Gary M. Ahlstrand

Abstract

Radon and radon daughter concentrations in Carlsbad Cavern are directly related to daily external air temperature minima and, to a much smaller extent, atmospheric pressure. Conversely, more than 50% of the fluctuation in radon-induced alpha readiation at New Cave is associated with changes in atmospheric pressure, while outdoor air temperatures have no significant effect.

The different effects of temperature and pressure on alpha radiation levels in the two caves are related to differences in the size and configuration of each cave.

This page last updated: 13 June, 2002 8:56
Web Author: Jim Pisarowicz