P4-01: Radiation Monitor (Geiger Counter)
- ID Code: P4-01
- Purpose: Demonstrates radioactivity, the Radiation Monitor (Geiger Counter), and some differences between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation
- Description:
Radioactive mineral sources can be examined.
Alpha particles have a range in air of about 2 or 3 cm; you must place the source close to the Radiation Monitor to observe the alphas. Inserting a piece of paper in the alpha beam stops them! Beta particles have a longer range in air, and are mostly unaffected by passing through a piece of paper. A thin lead sheet stops the betas, but some counting may remain due to the presence of a some gammas in the beta source. Gammas are unaffected by the paper or the thin lead sheet, but can be stopped by a lead brick
- Availability: Limited availability, please contact us minimum 1 week ahead to discuss availability of radioactive sources
- References: http://lecdem.physics.umd.edu/images/refs/refsp.htm#P4-01
- Loc codes: SU19
- Videos-1: https://lecdemtest.physics.umd.edu/images/OldDemoIndex/demosp4/p4-01.mpg