Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device for detecting and measuring ionizing radiation: A Geiger counter is a scientific instrument that detects and counts particles of ionizing radiation, such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. It typically produces an audible click or visual signal for each particle detected.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The scientist used a Geiger counter to check for radiation levels in the laboratory.
  • After the nuclear incident, officials scanned the area with Geiger counters to ensure public safety.

Advanced Usage

• "Geiger counter reading": The measurement or data output from the device.
  • The Geiger counter reading spiked near the old uranium sample.
• "Geiger-Müller counter/tube": The full technical name, referring to the specific type of counter tube inside the device, named after its inventors Hans Geiger and Walther Müller.
  • The core component of the instrument is the Geiger-Müller tube.

Variants and Related Words

• Geiger-Müller counter (n): A synonym, emphasizing the specific tube technology.
• Radiation detector (n): A more general term for devices that detect radiation, which includes but is not limited to Geiger counters.
• Scintillation counter (n): Another type of radiation detection instrument that works on a different principle.

Synonyms

• Radiation meter: A device for measuring radiation.
• Particle detector: A general term for instruments that detect subatomic particles.

Related Phrases

• To click like a Geiger counter: An idiomatic expression describing a rapid, repetitive sound.
  • The old radiator started to click like a Geiger counter.
• Geiger counter survey: A systematic examination of an area using the device.
  • They conducted a Geiger counter survey of the entire site.

Noun

1. counter tube that detects ionizing radiations