answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

An ionization type smokes detector with 241Am is sure if you don't destroy this device.

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

AnswerBot

5mo ago

Americium-241 emits alpha particles, which are relatively low energy and can be easily stopped by air or a thin sheet of paper, making it safe for use in smoke detectors. Additionally, the amount used in smoke detectors is very small and tightly sealed, minimizing any potential health risks.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Why is the isotope americium 241 safe to use in smoke detectors?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

What does americium do in smoke detectors?

Americium-241 is used in smoke detectors because it emits alpha particles that ionize the air inside the detector. This ionization process allows a small electric current to flow between two electrodes in the detector. When smoke enters the detector, it disrupts this current, triggering the alarm.


How much americium is used in smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors typically contain about 0.28 micrograms of americium-241, which is a radioactive element used to ionize the air in the detector to allow for detection of smoke particles. This small amount of americium is safe for household use and poses minimal health risk.


Why do nuclei that emit alpha particles such as americium-241 are safe to use in smoke defectors?

Actually, americium-241 is not safe. If you disassemble the smoke detector and remove the americium-241 pellet, and then ingest it, you are at risk of developing cancer, because an alpha emitter is dangerous when ingested. There are clear warnings on the smoke detector about this. The reason smoke detectors in general are safe is that the amount of americium-241 is very small, and it is very difficult to extract it from the smoke detector. Also, the alpha particles will not travel more than an inch or so in free air, and they will be stopped by the internal design anyway, so the alpha particle field inside the smoke detector is limited to the ion chamber, also inside the smoke detector.


What if Americium was replaced with a gamma-emitter in smoke alarms?

It would need a lot more shielding to be as safe as the alpha radiation of Americium.


What do Small radioactive sources that are present in smoke detectors release?

Radioactive sources release some form of radiation, in the case of smoke detectors the specific type will be alpha radiation- most likely from americium 241. The alpha radiation is a helium nucleus which is highly ionizing but is fairly safe since it can only travel around about 5cm in the air, the act of a stream of alpha radiation being intercepted by CO2 cuts a circuit and is how the CO2 is detected.


Is it safe to place smoker detectors on wall instead of ceiling?

Yes. You can mount smoke detectors high on the wall instead of on the ceiling. Make sure that the detector is no more than 12 inches from the ceiling. Since smoke rises, you want the detectors as high as possible.


What is a slogan for americium?

the trustworthy element. you can trust it when your out in the field and you break a leg and you need your portable X-ray to work, you can trust it when your sound asleep to wake you up if your house is on fire. AMERICIUM IS THE ELEMENT YOU CAN TRUST!!!!!!!!


Smoke detectors are they safe for us?

Yes, smoke detectors are safe for humans. They are designed to alert you to potential danger from smoke or fire in your home, providing an important safety measure to help protect you and your family. It is recommended to regularly test and maintain your smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.


How is smoke inhalation prevented?

Smoke inhalation is best avoided by preventing structural fires. This includes inspection of wiring, safe use and storage of flammable liquids. Properly placed and working smoke detectors in combination with rapid evacuation plans.


Is americium safe to touch?

No, americium is radioactive and therefore not safe to touch. It can pose a risk of radiation exposure if handled without proper protection.


Protect Your Home With Smoke Detectors?

The only thing more important to your home and the contents inside is the family that lives in it. Don't take chances with the safety of your family members. A wireless smoke detector is a safe and reliable way to alert you and your family in the unfortunate event of a fire. There are plenty wireless smoke detectors available at your local home improvement store. A store expert will be able to help you choose the right one for your home at the right price. If you don't have properly working smoke detectors in your home, don't delay any further.


What is a good slogan for the element bohrium?

If you like colored glass you will love Uranium! Who are you, U 92 ?