Lesson 5: But Is It Safe?

Cost efficiency is not the only factor that one must consider when choosing a battery. Certain types of batteries emit radiation, which is potentially harmful to many living organisms. Geiger counters can measure the amount of radiation to assess the possible dangers.

Doing the science

1. Click the "Simulation" button to open the Betavoltaics sim.
2. Click on one of the direct current sources located at the top of the screen.
3. Click the red "Start" button on the source testing device.
4. Record the source name, the radiation dose, and type displayed on the Geiger counter in Table 1.
5. Repeat steps 2–4 above, until all sources are tested. Make sure to record your data in Table 1.