Exploring Accelerator Research

Req 3b — Choose an Accelerator Path

3b.
Do ONE of the following:

For this requirement, you choose exactly one option. Both paths teach you how accelerator science is used in the real world, but they fit different kinds of Scouts.

Your Options

How to Choose

Choosing your option

Pick the path that matches your access and interests
  • Best for in-person learners: choose 3b1 if you can visit a university, national lab, or research facility, or arrange a conversation with a scientist.
  • Best for independent researchers: choose 3b2 if travel is difficult but you enjoy comparing major facilities and their discoveries.
  • What you will gain with 3b1: a first-hand look at how scientists talk about their work, solve problems, and use equipment.
  • What you will gain with 3b2: a broader view of the field and a better sense of how different accelerators serve different purposes.

Before you choose, these two official videos can help you picture what large accelerator facilities look like and why scientists use them.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Nuclear Science Division (video)
Inside the World's Largest Science Experiment (video)

If you want the people-and-places version of this requirement, start with the visit option first.