Activated charcoal devices measure radon by analyzing what?

The method by which activated charcoal devices measure radon involves capturing radon gas on the surface of the charcoal and then analyzing it for the radiation emitted when radon decays. Radon is a radioactive gas that primarily emits alpha particles as it undergoes decay. When radon disintegrates, it produces these alpha particles, which can be detected and quantified.

Activated charcoal works by adsorbing radon gas from the air. Once collected, the diagnostic equipment measures the level of alpha radiation emitted from the decay of radon's decay products. This process allows for determining the concentration of radon gas in the environment.

While other types of particles or radiation, like beta particles, gamma rays, or neutron flux might be relevant in nuclear physics or radiological assessments, they are not the primary forms of radiation produced in the decay chain of radon, which is why those options do not apply in this context.