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Smoke detector operation

Diagram showing how smoke detectors operate.

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 2009Size: 19.49 KB