What device is primarily used to detect and measure ionizing radiation?

The Geiger-Muller counter is primarily used to detect and measure ionizing radiation because it is specifically designed to respond to radiation by producing an audible click and a display that indicates radiation levels. This device operates by using a gas-filled tube that becomes ionized when radiation passes through it, enabling the detection of various types of ionizing radiation such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

The Geiger-Muller counter is widely utilized in various fields, including health physics, nuclear medicine, and environmental monitoring, due to its ability to provide immediate and direct measurements. Its sensitivity to low levels of radiation makes it especially valuable for safety monitoring in environments where radiation exposure may occur.

Other devices listed, like the photoelectric sensor, are not typically used for ionizing radiation detection; instead, they are more suited for detecting light or other non-ionizing radiation. Radiation dosimeters, while essential for measuring accumulated radiation exposure over time, do not provide real-time readings and are primarily worn by individuals to track exposure. Ionization chambers are also used to measure ionizing radiation but are generally employed in more controlled settings, often for calibration and precise measurement rather than routine detection. Thus, the Geiger-Muller counter stands out as the main device for easily