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Mark II Particle Detector Mark II Particle Detector
Geiger Counter Geiger Counter
Charles T. R. Wilson Charles T. R. Wilson

Geiger Counter

Geiger Counter
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A Geiger counter is a device used by scientists and surveyors for detecting the presence and intensity of radiation. The tube is filled with low-pressure gas and acts as an ionizing chamber. An electronic circuit maintains a strong electric field between a fine wire in the center of the tube and its walls. When ionizing radioactive particles enter the tube and collide with gas atoms, they ionize the gas, producing free electrons. These electrons flow along the center wire and create an electrical pulse, which is amplified and counted electronically. When radiation is detected, the Geiger counter produces a clicking, staticlike sound.
R. Van Munchow/Phototake NYC/© Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Appears in these articles:
Physics; Particle Detectors; Geiger Counter
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