Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which components are included in the design of an alpha scintillation probe?

1. Photomultiplier tube and aluminum cover

2. Mylar window and zinc sulfide crystal

3. Solid crystal and gas chamber

4. Glass tube and sodium iodide

The correct answer is: Mylar window and zinc sulfide crystal

The design of an alpha scintillation probe typically includes a Mylar window and a zinc sulfide crystal. The Mylar window is a critical component because it allows alpha particles to enter the detector while providing a barrier to other types of radiation such as beta or gamma radiation, which would interfere with the specific detection of alpha particles. This is necessary because alpha particles have a very low penetration ability and cannot pass through thicker materials. The zinc sulfide crystal acts as the scintillator. When alpha particles interact with the zinc sulfide material, they excite the atoms and result in the emission of light (scintillation). This light is then detected by a photomultiplier tube or similar device, which converts the light into an electrical signal for measurement. The combination of the Mylar window and the zinc sulfide crystal makes for an effective and sensitive design for detecting alpha radiation, which is essential in various applications such as environmental monitoring, radiation protection, and health physics.