These have been widely used and are versatile in their applications. The
potential difference between the electrodes in the Geiger-Müller tube
(similar to an ionization chamber) is high. A single alpha or beta
particle ionizes some of the gas within the chamber. In turn these ions
strike other gas molecules producing secondary ionization. The result is
an “avalanche” or high-intensity pulse of electricity passing between
the electrodes. These pulses can be counted electrically and recorded on
a meter at rates up to several thousand per minute.