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Chapter 19: Problem 58

When using a Geiger-Müller counter to measure radioactivity, it is necessary to maintain the same geometrical orientation between the sample and the Geiger-Muller tube to compare different measurements. Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Maintaining the same geometrical orientation between the sample and the Geiger-Müller tube is crucial for accurate, consistent, and comparable measurements of radioactivity. This ensures the angle and distance between the radioactive source and the detector remain consistent, minimizing variations due to geometric factors. To achieve this, standardized setups, sample holders, adjustable stands, and markings can be used for proper alignment.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Geiger-Müller counter

A Geiger-Müller counter is a device used to measure radioactivity. It consists of a Geiger-Müller tube and a counting system. The tube is filled with gas, and when ionizing radiation passes through it, the particles interact with the gas molecules, causing them to ionize. This ionization produces an electric pulse, which is counted by the system. The number of electric pulses is proportional to the intensity of the radiation.
02

Implications of geometrical orientation for measurements

The intensity of radiation depends on distance and angle between the radioactive source (sample) and the Geiger-Müller tube. If the distance or angle changes, then the number of particles reaching the tube may also change, affecting the count and making comparisons difficult. Consequently, when comparing different measurements, it is important to maintain the same geometric orientation to ensure consistency.
03

Possible sources of inconsistency in maintaining geometric orientation

If the geometric orientation is not maintained, several factors may introduce inconsistencies into the measurement. These include variations in the distance between the sample and the detector, the angle of incidence of radiation, and the effect of surrounding objects or materials on the propagation and absorption of radiation. Ensuring that the sample-detector geometry remains unchanged helps minimize the influence of these factors.
04

Ensuring accurate comparisons between measurements

To ensure accurate comparisons between measurements, the geometric orientation should be maintained as much as possible by using a standardized setup and carefully aligning the sample and the Geiger-Müller tube. This can be achieved by using devices like sample holders, adjustable stands, and markings on the counter itself or on the work surface to consistently reposition the sample and the tube.
05

Conclusion

Maintaining the same geometrical orientation between the sample and the Geiger-Müller tube is crucial for accurate, consistent, and comparable measurements of radioactivity. By keeping the angle and distance between the radioactive source and the detector consistent, variations caused by geometric factors can be minimized, making it possible to compare measurements obtained under similar conditions.

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