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Chapter 18: Problem 24

Explain why nuclei that emit alpha particles, such as americium-241, are safe to use in smoke detectors.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The use of americium-241 in smoke detectors is safe due to the nature of alpha particles: their inability to travel long distances in air or penetrate solid materials. The americium-241 is sealed in the detector, preventing the alpha particles from escaping and posing a hazard.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Properties of Alpha Particles

Alpha particles are heavy, positively charged particles consisting of two protons and two neutrons. Due to their size and charge, they interact strongly with matter and can only travel short distances in air, typically a few centimeters, or through a few millimeters of a solid material.
02

Consider Americium-241 in Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors contain a small amount of americium-241 which produces alpha particles. These particles ionize the air in a small, enclosed chamber in the detector, allowing a small current to flow. If smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts this current, activating the alarm.
03

Analyze the Safety of Using Americium-241

Due to the properties of alpha particles, namely their short range in air and inability to penetrate a sheet of paper or the surface of human skin, they don't pose an external hazard. They are only dangerous if ingested or inhaled, but the americium in a smoke detector is sealed so that the particles cannot escape. Thus, as long as the smoke detector isn't tampered with, the use of americium-241 is safe.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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