The Department of Physics at the College of Science, University of Mosul, discussed on Sunday, 19 April 2026, a Master’s thesis entitled:

“The Effect of the Air Gap Between Electrodes on the Hemispherical Energy Analyzer”

submitted by Mr. Miqdad Nayef Ghaib.

The thesis focused on investigating the impact of variations in the air gap between electrodes on the efficiency and performance of the Hemispherical Energy Analyzer (HEA), a highly precise instrument widely used in the analysis of charged particles. The findings demonstrated that this geometric parameter is a key factor in achieving an optimal balance between measurement accuracy and instrument transmission.

The study revealed an inverse relationship between energy resolution and air-gap width. Results indicated that an air gap of 7 mm represents the optimal value, providing an appropriate balance between enhanced energy separation and signal stability. The research further showed that narrow gaps improve energy resolution by restricting the electron acceptance angle; however, they reduce transmission efficiency. In contrast, wider gaps increase the number of electrons reaching the detector at the expense of resolution and require higher operating voltages.

The thesis also examined the behavior of electron kinetic energy within the analyzer. The results demonstrated a deceleration pattern at the 7 mm air gap and greater stability at 3 mm, while larger gaps exhibited an increasing energy trend. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of particle dynamics inside hemispherical energy analyzers.

As part of the device development aspect of the research, the thesis proposed a new analyzer design incorporating a dedicated shielding disk to reduce electric field leakage while optimizing the applied voltage. The proposed modification proved effective in enhancing the analyzer’s performance and improving its operational efficiency.

The examination committee consisted of:

• Prof. Dr. Firas Mohammed Ali – Chairperson
• Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Younis Owaid – Member
• Assist. Prof. Dr. Alaa Abdulhakeem – Member
• Prof. Dr. Abdullah Idris Mustafa – Member and Supervisor

At the conclusion of the defense, the committee commended the scientific quality of the thesis and the significant efforts invested in the research, emphasizing its importance in advancing precise physical measurement techniques.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

This thesis supports several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, through the promotion of high-quality scientific research, and Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by contributing to the development of advanced analytical instruments that enhance laboratory technologies and support applied research in modern physics and technology.

Furthermore, on behalf of the Dean of the College of Science, Prof. Dr. Hiyam Adel Ibrahim, the Head of the Department of Physics, Assist. Prof. Dr. Samir Mahmoud Ahmed, presented a Letter of Appreciation to Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Younis Owaid of the Technical Institute/Mosul, Northern Technical University, in recognition of his active participation in the examination committee and his valuable scientific contributions, which enriched the discussion and strengthened the academic quality of the thesis.

The College extends its best wishes to its students and faculty members for continued success and academic excellence.

Media and Government Communication Division

Sunday, 19 April 2026