The Geiger-Mueller (GM) detector is a popular choice for studying laboratory radioactive materials. It is capable of detecting alpha, beta and gamma radiation. Detection is achieved through the use of a Geiger counter, which uses the natural ionization process to measure radiation levels. This device typically displays the amount of radiation present in units of counts per minute, counts per second, or microroentgen (µR) or microrem (µrem) per hour.
Geiger counters were first developed by Hans Geiger and his doctoral student Walter Muller between 1925 and 1928. They improved the sensitivity of the counter to detect all types of ionizing radiation. A special type of meter, known as a teletector, is specifically designed to detect gamma and x-ray radiation. In addition to Geiger counters, there are other instruments used for detecting and measuring radiation. An RIID (Radiation Isotope Identification Device) is a radiation detector with the ability to analyze the energy spectrum of radiation, in order to identify the specific radioactive material (radionuclide) that emits the radiation. Overall, Geiger counters are an essential tool for detecting and measuring radiation.
They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making them a popular choice for many applications. In addition, they can be used in conjunction with other instruments to provide more detailed information about the type of radiation present.
