Geiger counter what type of radiation

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Geiger Counters. Most common isotopes emit both Gamma and Beta radiation. Now aim the open window of the Geiger counter at and immediately next to the suspected source of radioactivity. If this gives you a reading versus no detection through the housing itself, then the radioactivity is from Alpha, Beta, or low energy Gamma.

Next, place a piece of aluminum foil between the open window and the radioactive source. If the radioactive indication stops, it is likely Beta radiation, and should be read in terms of CPM.

Now do the same test with a sheet of paper between the open window and the radioactive source. If the radioactive indication stops, it is most likely Alpha, and should be read in terms of CPM. In the course of your readings, be careful not to contaminate the detector with radioactivity by physically touching the radioactive source or by holding the source above the open window of the Geiger counter.

Unless otherwise mentioned, all of our Geiger counters come pre-calibrated from the factory. You should re-calibrate your Geiger counter as often as your regulations require, or in any case, at least once a year. The counter consists of a tube filled with an inert gas that becomes conductive of electricity when it is impacted by a high-energy particle. When a Geiger counter is exposed to ionizing radiation, the particles penetrate the tube and collide with the gas, releasing more electrons.

Positive ions exit the tube and the negatively charged electrons become attracted to a high-voltage middle wire. When the number of electrons that build up around the wire reaches a threshold, it creates an electric current.