When conducting a survey for radioactive contamination, what tool is most often used?

When conducting a survey for radioactive contamination, a scintillation detector is often used due to its ability to detect low levels of radiation with high sensitivity. This type of detector operates using a scintillator material that produces light when ionizing radiation passes through it. The emitted light is then converted into an electrical signal by a photomultiplier tube, allowing for precise identification and quantification of radioactive contamination.

Scintillation detectors are particularly effective in environments where detecting small amounts of contamination is critical, such as in laboratories or areas with potentially hazardous materials. Their rapid response time and ability to provide real-time readings make them especially valuable for surveying purposes.

In contrast, while other tools like Geiger counters, ionization chambers, and personal dosimeters also play important roles in radiation detection and measurement, they serve slightly different purposes. For example, Geiger counters are generally used for monitoring and detecting radiation levels but may not be as sensitive to low levels of contamination compared to scintillation detectors. Ionization chambers are often utilized for measuring exposure rather than directly detecting surface contamination, and personal dosimeters are designed for measuring an individual's radiation exposure over time rather than surveying contaminated areas.