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Americium-241 is a radioactive isotope and used in smoke detectors to ionize the air (gives air molecules a charge). This allows a small current t flow between two contacts placed in the air chamber. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they attach themselves to the ionized molecules (by electrostatic attraction) effectively making them bigger and slowing the current. The detector then goes off when the current slows.

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Q: Why is Americium-241 used in smoke detectors?
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Related questions

How long has americium been used in smoke detectors?

Americium become to be largely used in smoke detectors after 1970.


What are smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors are devices that detect smoke. They are used as warning devices in houses to warn people of fire.


What synthetic element that is used in smoke detectors?

Americium (isotope 241) is the most common radioactive element used in smoke detectors.


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14-3 Is the standard wire use for residental smoke detectors.


A synthetic element used in smoke detectors?

Americium (pronounced /ˌæməˈrɪsiəm/) is a synthetic element that has the symbol Am, the atomic number 95, and is used in smoke detectors.


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americinium is used in smoke detectors to check for smoke


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The first smoke detectors are based on optical principles - photoelectric detectors.


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It can be used for smoke detectors


What does americium do in smoke detectors?

Yes, americium is used as ionizing source in smoke detectors.


A synthetic element that is used in smoke detectors is?

Americium-241 this is an emitter of alpha radiation, which is used in smoke detectors as it is very ionising and will not be able to travel through smoke. Therefore, in a fire the detector will not receive any alpha radiation and hence the alarm will go off.


What is a radioactive element used is smoke detectors?

Americium 241