geiger-muller counter
Definition
Noun: A Geiger-Muller counter is a type of counter tube, specifically a radiation detection device, used to measure ionizing radiation such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. It operates by detecting the electrical pulses produced when radiation ionizes gas within the tube.
Usage
The term Geiger-Muller counter is used to refer to the specific instrument itself. It is a technical term common in physics, nuclear science, safety, and environmental monitoring contexts. * The scientist used a Geiger-Muller counter to check for radioactive contamination. * Readings from the Geiger-Muller counter confirmed the presence of gamma radiation.
Advanced Usage
- The device is often simply called a Geiger counter in general usage, though Geiger-Muller counter is the more precise technical name acknowledging both inventors (Geiger and Müller).
- It can be used metaphorically to describe something that detects or reacts strongly to a particular stimulus.
- His conscience was a moral Geiger-Muller counter, clicking at the slightest ethical breach.
Variants and Related Words
- Geiger counter (n): A common shortened form of Geiger-Muller counter.
- Radiation detector (n): A general term for any device that detects radiation, under which the Geiger-Muller counter is categorized.
- Scintillation counter (n): A different, often more sensitive, type of radiation detection instrument.
Synonyms
- Radiation meter
- Geiger counter
Related Phrases
- To click like a Geiger counter: An idiom describing a rapid, repetitive sound or reaction.
- The keyboard clicks were as rapid as a Geiger counter near a strong source.
Noun
-
counter tube that detects ionizing radiations
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