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Smoke detector operation
![Diagram showing how smoke detectors operate.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.datocms-assets.com%2F117510%2F1722391053-smoke-detector-operation20161004-21709-1kju6ky.jpg%3Fw%3D1018%26h%3D678&w=1080&q=85)
Alpha particles emitted by the americium-241 ionise the air molecules in the chamber. The electrical circuit establishes a current. Smoke particles interfere with the current, and the circuit is designed to set off an alarm when this happens.
Rights: The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato
Published: 17 September 2009,Updated: 17 September 2009Size: 19.49 KB