Similarities
- Detect the presence of a source of radiation
- Monitor counts/interval (rate) as different thicknesses of a particular type of shielding are placed between the Geiger-Mueller tube of the Radiation Monitor and a beta or gamma source
- Compare the effect of different types of materials to shield beta or gamma radiation
- Set up a histogram with a very long run time to show students how initial randomness of data develops first in a Poisson distribution, and then into a Gaussian distribution curve
- Measure radiation of common radioactive materials, such as lantern mantels or pre-World War II Fiestaware
- Monitor variation in background radiation at different elevations
- Monitor radioactivity in the environment over long periods of time
- Monitor counts per interval (rate) from a beta or gamma radiation source as a function of the distance between the source and the Radiation Monitor
- Sensor: LND 712 (or equivalent) halogen-quenched GM tube with a mica end window, with mass per unit area of 1.5 to 2.0 mg/cm2
- Operating range CPS 0 – 3,500
- Counting Detection: Blinking LED with optional audio signal
Differences
|
Go Direct Radiation Monitor (GDX-RAD) |
Vernier Radiation Monitor (VRM-BTD) |
| Power Source |
Rechargeable 300 mAh battery, charges via USB cable |
Does not require battery or AC power. Powered by Vernier interface. |
| Viewing Data |
Can be connected to a LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3, and Graphical Analysis or Graphical Analysis Pro (PC, Mac, Chrome, iOS, Android) |
Requires a Vernier LabQuest interface (any model) and compatible software (LabQuest app, Logger Pro, or Graphical Analysis, Graphical Analysis Pro) |
| Connection Type |
Bluetooth (iOS or Android) or USB cable (PC, Mac, or Chrome) |
BTD cable |
Published: February 8, 2017. Updated: January 11, 2021.
