Question

What is the transducer in a smoke detector?

Short answer

The transducer used in smoke detectors is input transducers, in which chemical or physical information is converted into current, voltage, or charge. They are photodiodes and electrodes.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Given information

The transducer in the smoke detector should be determined.

Step 2. Define Transducers

Transducers are essential in the analytical process. With the aid of these gadgets, real-world data may be translated into a measurable form. A transducer is a device that converts any type of signal into electrical signals. They can be employed at the system's input or output. When choosing a kind of transducer to employ for a task, numerous considerations are taken into account. Sensitivity, range, accuracy, precision, linearity, size, and cost are the factors to consider.

Step 3. Determining transducer in the smoke detector 

Input transducers are employed in smoke detectors, and they convert chemical or physical information into current, voltage, or charge.

There are two types of smoke detectors:

1. Photo-detectors: A light source (such as an LED) and a photo-diode generate a current proportional to the intensity of light emitted by the LED in photodetectors. The photo-current is produced whenever smoke enters between the LED and photo-diode, causing the alarm to sound.

2. Ionization detectors: These are battery-operated detectors that are commonly seen in houses. A radioactive source ionizes the air between a pair of electrodes in these sorts of detectors. The conductivity of the ionized air changes as smoke enters the region between the electrodes. The current flows as a result of the change in conductivity, causing the alarm to sound.