scintillation counter

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Word: Scintillation Counter

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A scintillation counter is a special device that detects ionizing radiation (like that from radioactive materials) by producing small flashes of light when radiation hits it.

How it Works: When ionizing radiation interacts with the material inside the counter, it causes tiny bursts of light (called scintillations). These flashes are then counted and measured to determine the level of radiation present.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "scintillation counter" when discussing topics related to physics, nuclear science, or medical imaging.
• It is typically used in scientific contexts, such as laboratories, hospitals, or research facilities.

Example Sentence:

• "The researchers used a scintillation counter to measure the radiation levels in the samples they collected."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced discussions, you might encounter phrases like "scintillation counting," which refers to the process of measuring the light produced in a scintillation counter.

Word Variants:

• Scintillation (noun): The flash of light produced.
• Counter (noun): Refers to the device or instrument used for counting.

Different Meanings:

The term "scintillation" can also refer to the twinkling of stars in the night sky caused by atmospheric conditions, but in the context of "scintillation counter," it specifically relates to the detection of radiation.

Synonyms:

• Radiation detector
• Photon counter (in some contexts)

Related Terms:

• Ionizing Radiation: A type of radiation that has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions.
• Photomultiplier Tube: A component often found in scintillation counters that amplifies the light signals.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "scintillation counter," but you might hear phrases like "count on" in everyday conversation, which means to rely on something or someone.

Summary:

A scintillation counter is an important tool in scientific research for measuring radiation.

Academic

Noun

1. counter tube in which light flashes when exposed to ionizing radiation