Smoke detector working principle

Smoke detector working principle.
A smoke detector is a device designed to detect the presence of smoke in an environment, typically to alert occupants of a building or home to a potential fire. The working principle of a smoke detector varies depending on the type, but the two most common types are ionization smoke detectors and photoelectric smoke detectors.
Ionization Smoke Detectors: These detectors work by using a small amount of radioactive material (usually Americium-241) to ionize the air inside the detector chamber. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they disrupt the normal ionization process, causing a decrease in electrical current flow. The decrease in current triggers the alarm.
Photoelectric Smoke Detectors: These detectors operate by using a light source (usually an LED) and a light-sensitive sensor (photodiode) placed at an angle to each other within the detector chamber. When smoke enters the chamber, it scatters the light, causing some of it to reach the sensor. The sensor then detects this scattered light and triggers the alarm.
Newer smoke detectors might also use a combination of both ionization and photoelectric technologies for enhanced accuracy in detecting different types of fires.
In either case, the goal of a smoke detector is to identify the presence of smoke particles, which can be an early indication of a fire. This early warning allows occupants to take appropriate action, such as evacuating the premises or calling emergency services, to minimize potential harm.