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How to Measure Radioactivity

Ionizing radiation was first discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Röntgen. Though fascinating at first, it was quickly discovered that ionizing radiation was actually dangerous, causing skin burns, cancer and even death. The discovery of ionizing radiation prompted Hans Geiger, a German nuclear physicist, to invent what is now known as a Geiger counter, to help detect this new kind of radiation. Though crude at first, Geiger and a PhD student, Walther Müller refined the device in 1928.

Things You'll Need

Geiger counter

Instructions

- 1
  Turn the Geiger counter on. Depending on the exact model, the Geiger counter may have various settings to detect, for example, different kinds of ionizing radiation, so it is a good idea to read the instruction manual for your exact model so you know which settings to use.
- 2
  Hold the unit in one hand, and the wand in the other. Hold the wand close to a thing or area that you suspect to have high levels of radiation.
- 3
  Look at the display of the Geiger counter. Some models have a needle that will fluctuate across a range, depending on the strength of the radiation. If your Geiger counter has a digital display, there will likely be some other form of measurement. Whatever the display, it should be intuitive. If it is not, read your manual.
- 4
  Listen to your Geiger counter if it gives any audible indication of the level of radiation present. Many Geiger counters have this feature, which sounds like clicks. The more rapid the clicking, the more radiation is present.

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