What types of particles do Radiation Detection Instruments monitor?

Radiation Detection Instruments are designed specifically to monitor ionizing radiation, which primarily includes alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Alpha particles are heavy and carry a positive charge, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, and they are typically emitted from heavy elements undergoing radioactive decay. Beta particles, which can be either electrons (beta-minus) or positrons (beta-plus), are lighter and carry a negative or positive charge, respectively. Gamma rays, on the other hand, are high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of a radioactive atom and are neutral in charge.

These instruments utilize various technologies to detect and measure these specific types of particles because they present different hazards to health and safety. Radiation Detection Instruments need to be sensitive to these forms of radiation to provide accurate readings and ensure that personnel can take appropriate safety measures when exposed to hazardous materials.

Other options, such as protons, electrons in fields, or molecular vibrations, do not represent the primary forms of radiation that pose health risks and as such are not the focus of radiation monitoring techniques in emergency response or hazardous material situations.