Muon tomography is a technique that uses cosmic muons, which are subatomic particles created when cosmic rays collide with the Earth's atmosphere. These muons can penetrate materials, allowing scientists to create images of dense structures, such as volcanoes or nuclear reactors. By measuring the number of muons that pass through or are absorbed by an object, researchers can infer its internal composition and density.
This method is particularly useful in areas where traditional imaging techniques, like X-rays or ultrasound, may not be effective. Muon tomography provides valuable insights into geological formations and can help monitor volcanic activity or assess the integrity of nuclear facilities.