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No, the radioactive sources in smoke detectors emit alpha particles. These are very weakly penetrating and are stopped by a few centimetres of air, therefore the plastic casing of the detector is sufficient to stop any radiation.

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15y ago

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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.


How are alpha particles used in smoke alarms?

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.


Why is the smoke detector beeping?

The smoke detector is beeping because it is detecting smoke or a low battery.


What are the steps involved in hardwired smoke detector installation?

Turn off power to the area where the smoke detector will be installed. Remove the old smoke detector, if applicable. Connect the new smoke detector to the existing wiring. Mount the smoke detector on the ceiling or wall using screws. Restore power and test the smoke detector to ensure it is functioning properly.


Was the smoke detector proposed for a mission?

actually no, the smoke detector was not proposed for a mission


Can you buy smoke detector tape?

Personally, I have no idea what "smoke detector tape" is.


Is a smoke a detector like a sense organ?

is a smoke detector like a sense organ


Is a smoke detector like a sense organ?

is a smoke detector like a sense organ


Smoke detectors are they safe for us?

Yes, even though they do emit ionizing radiation. The amount of radiation emitted from a smoke detector is about 1 hundredth of a millirem per year. The background radiation from radioactive isotopes in the ground is about 300 millirem per year. So the ground your standing on right now is exposing you to more radiation then your smoke detector ever will.


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.


Why does the smoke detector beep?

A smoke detector beeps to alert you when it detects smoke or fire, which could be a sign of danger in your home.


Why does a smoke detector chirp?

A smoke detector chirps to indicate that its battery is low and needs to be replaced.