The PRD detects which type of radiation?

The PRD, or Portable Radiation Detector, is specifically designed to identify and assess gamma radiation. Gamma rays are a form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from radioactive decay processes. These detectors are equipped with sensitive instrumentation that can effectively measure the high-energy photons characteristic of gamma radiation. Gamma radiation is of particular concern in many fields, including nuclear safety and emergency response, due to its penetrating ability and potential health risks.

When it comes to the other types of radiation, while some detectors may be capable of sensing them, PRDs are primarily optimized for detecting gamma radiation. Alpha radiation consists of heavy, charged particles that can be stopped by a sheet of paper, and beta radiation involves lighter charged particles, neither of which can penetrate deeply enough to be readily detected by a PRD. X-rays, on the other hand, are also electromagnetic radiation like gamma rays but are distinguished by their origin (which is typically from electronic transitions rather than nuclear decay) and wavelength. This distinction means that PRDs are not specifically designed for detecting x-ray radiation. Therefore, the focus and capabilities of PRDs validate the correct choice of gamma radiation as the type they predominantly detect.