 Alpha particle X-ray spectrometer

An Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) is an analytical instrument used primarily in planetary science, geology, and material science to measure the elemental composition of a sample. The APXS works by utilizing alpha particles and X-rays to determine the presence and concentration of various elements within the material being analyzed. ### Key Features of APXS: 1. **Working Principle**: - The APXS generates alpha particles, which are emitted from a radioactive source, typically americium-241.