What equipment is used for detecting ionizing radiation?

The Geiger-Muller counter is specifically designed to detect ionizing radiation, which includes alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. This device operates by using a Geiger-Muller tube that produces an electrical pulse when radiation interacts with the gas inside the tube. The count of these pulses, measured over time, provides a direct indication of the radiation levels in the environment, making it a reliable tool for monitoring radiation exposure and ensuring safety in areas where radiation may be present.

In contrast, a radiation dosimeter is primarily used to measure the dose of radiation that an individual has been exposed to over a period of time, rather than to actively detect radiation levels in the environment. A geographical survey device is focused on mapping and surveying land, without capabilities related to radiation detection. Lastly, a thermal imaging camera detects heat rather than ionizing radiation, making it unsuitable for identifying radiation sources. Thus, the Geiger-Muller counter stands out as the appropriate choice for detecting ionizing radiation.