What is Cherenkov Radiation?

Cherenkov radiation happens when electrically charged particles, such as protons or electrons, travel faster than light in a clear medium like water. When this happens, the water molecules and particles interact to give off light.

How is it possible to travel faster than the speed of light?

Light slows down to 75 percent of its normal speed when it travels through water. This allows the particles emitted from nuclear fuel to move faster than light in water.

As these charged particles disrupt water molecules in their path, light particles, known as photons, are released — creating a visible “shockwave” of blue or violet light.

Learn more: https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/cherenkov-radiation-explained

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