proportional counter
Definition
Noun: A proportional counter is a type of radiation detection instrument. It is a gas-filled tube (counter tube) designed such that the electrical pulse it generates is directly proportional in size to the amount of initial ionization caused by the radiation particle entering it. This allows it to not only detect radiation but also measure the energy of individual particles.
Usage
The term is used specifically in the fields of physics, nuclear engineering, and radiation detection. It names a precise scientific instrument. - The laboratory used a proportional counter to measure the low-energy alpha particles. - For accurate spectroscopy of X-rays, a proportional counter is often employed.
Advanced Usage
- Operational Principle: The device operates in the "proportional region" of gas amplification, where the charge collected is proportional to the initial ionization event, distinguishing it from a Geiger-Müller counter.
- The key advantage of a proportional counter is its ability to discriminate between different types of radiation based on pulse height.
Variants and Related Words
- Proportional Counter Tube: A more explicit, technical synonym.
- Gas Proportional Counter: Emphasizes the detection medium.
- Flow Proportional Counter: A type where the counting gas flows through the chamber continuously.
- Proportional Counting (n): The technique or process of using a proportional counter.
Synonyms
- Radiation Proportional Detector
- Proportional Chamber (though this often refers to multi-wire designs for tracking)
Related Phrases/Compounds
- Proportional Counter Array: Multiple counters arranged together.
- Proportional Counter Filling Gas: The specific gas mixture (e.g., P-10 gas: 90% argon, 10% methane) used inside the tube.
Noun
-
counter tube whose output pulse is proportional to number of ions produced
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ chứa "proportional counter"
