What is the purpose of the safety stop ball in a source assembly?

The safety stop ball in a source assembly serves a crucial function by preventing the radioactive source from accidentally exiting through the back of the camera. This mechanism is essential for maintaining safety during operations involving radiation sources, as it minimizes the risk of unintended exposure to radiation for both the operator and surrounding individuals. The presence of the safety stop ball ensures that even if there is a malfunction or an operational error, the source remains securely contained, thereby protecting everyone involved from potential harm. This design feature is an important aspect of radiation safety protocols and highlights the importance of well-engineered safety mechanisms in equipment handling radioactive materials.