Geiger counter
Geiger Counter
A Geiger counter (pronounced: /ˈɡaɪɡər ˈkaʊntər/), also known as a Geiger-Müller counter, is a type of particle detector that measures ionizing radiation.
Etymology
The Geiger counter is named after its inventors, Hans Geiger and Walther Müller, who developed the device in 1928.
Description
The Geiger counter is used to detect and measure ionizing radiation such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. The device consists of a Geiger-Müller tube, which is filled with an inert gas that becomes conductive of electricity when it is impacted by a high-energy particle.
Operation
When a particle of radiation enters the tube, it ionizes the gas, creating an avalanche of ionized electrons. These electrons create a pulse of current that is detected and counted by the device. The number of pulses per unit of time gives the radiation level.
Related Terms
- Ionizing radiation: type of radiation with enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, thus ionizing them.
- Alpha particle: a type of ionizing radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons.
- Beta particle: a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted in the radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus.
- Gamma ray: electromagnetic radiation of extremely high frequency and therefore high energy.
- Geiger-Müller tube: the sensing element of the Geiger counter.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Geiger counter
- Wikipedia's article - Geiger counter
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