Which device is primarily used for short-term measurements of radon concentration?

The device that is primarily used for short-term measurements of radon concentration is the scintillation cell. Scintillation cells detect alpha particles emitted by radon decay. When radon gas enters the cell, it produces flashes of light (scintillations) that are detectable and can be counted. This method provides a quick measurement of radon concentration, making it suitable for short-term testing.

Electret ion chambers and alpha track detectors are more commonly utilized for long-term monitoring due to their ability to integrate radon exposure over extended periods, providing a comprehensive understanding of radon levels in a location over time. Charcoal liquid scintillation devices can also measure radon levels, but they are generally used for both short- and long-term assessments, leaning more towards short-term use in specific contexts.

Scintillation cells stand out in their design and functionality for immediate and accurate short-term radon measurement, which is why they are the preferred choice in this scenario.