Volume recombination parameter in ionization chambers

The parameter m(2) governing the volume recombination in ionization chambers has been measured under conditions which allow strict application of the basic theory. The method consists of measuring the ratio of ionization currents l(v1) and l(v2) Obtained at two given voltages V-1 and V-2 as a function of l(v1). The value of m(2) is derived from a linear extrapolation to zero current. Several pairs of voltages (V-1, V-2) were used. The value of m(2) obtained in this work is 3.97 x 10(14) s m(-1) C-1 V-2 With a relative uncertainty of 1.7%. The dependence of m(2) on atmospheric conditions has also been investigated.