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Alpha radiation is emitted from the amercium button in a smoke detector. When smoke goes into the smoke detector it blocks the stream of alpha particles emitted from the americium. That triggers an alarm.
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∙ 13y ago
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What is an important use of the alpha particle?
The commonest use of alpha particles is probably in smoke detectors. The americium in the smoke detectors emits alpha particles. If smoke is present, it stops the alpha particles more efficiently than air, creating ions in the detection area of the device. The ions make the air more conductive, and the conductivity is sensed by the detector, which sets of the alarm. Alpha particles are also used in the radioisotope thermoelectric generators that power pacemakers and space probes.
Which actinide is used in smoke alarms?
americium.
How is americium 241 used in smoke detectors?
Americium-241 being radioactive - emit alpha particles - is used as a source to ionization of air.
Which actinide is used in some smoke alarms?
americium.
What does alpha alpha radiation do?
It can be used for smoke detectors
What are alpha particles used for?
We commonly see an isotope of americium generating alpha particles to ionize air in smoke detectors. A source generates alpha particles to ionize air in industrial settings so that the ionized air will quickly and effectively dissipate static charges. A radio pharmaceutical generates alpha particles, and the unsealed source irradiates tumors in patients that are so implanted. We find alpha particle sources in the physics lab where they are used in experiments and demonstrations. Alpha particles can be accelerated for use as "atomic bullets" in high energy physics research.
How is radioactivity used in smoke detectors?
There are two types of smoke detectors:Photoelectric Smoke detectorsIonizing Smoke DetectorsIonization smoke detectors are more commonly used. The smoke detector uses an ionization chamber and a source of ionizing radiation to detect smoke.Alpha particles are emitted from from the chamber, which ionize the air, so that the air conducts electricity and a small current flows.If smoke enters the alarm, it absorbs the alpha particles causing the current to reduce, and the alarm sounds.Generally, smoke detectors use a weak source made of Americium-241 (241Am95).Note: Alpha particles are the nuclei of a Helium Atom (4He2).
What use is alpha radiation?
It is used in smoke detectors as it cannot travel far in air. Alpha radiation is emitted and as long as the detector in the device is receiving the alpha radiation, then no smoke is present. When smoke particles are present, they interrupt the radiation, and so the detector doesn't pick up the radiation, causing the alarm to go off.
Explain why americium-241 would be an ideal isotope to use in a smoke detector?
Alpha particles from americium ionized the air. An air with smoke has a different ionization, ionization currents which are also different are measured, compared and the detector (which is before calibrated) is ready !
Is it possible to clone alpha particles?
No. You can produce alpha particles in a number of ways, but that's not really "cloning" as the term is usually used, even if all alpha particles are indistinguishable from each other.
Why do nuclei that emit alpha particles such as americium-241 are safe to use in smoke defectors?
Nuclei that emit alpha particles, such as americium-241, are safe to use in smoke detectors because alpha particles can only travel a short distance through air and are easily stopped by a thin sheet of paper or clothing. The radiation emitted by the nuclei is low energy and poses no harm to humans. Additionally, the amount of americium-241 used in smoke detectors is very small, further reducing the risk.
Where are alarms used?
Most public areas and buildings have them installed as a legal requirement. Some houses and residential buildings also have fire alarms but mostly smoke alarms. (Two different things).
