Re: [Phys-l] Ionization type smoke detectors.

[Brian Whatcott <betwys1@sbcglobal.net>]

At 11:36 AM 9/28/2006, you wrote:
> ... stopping the Alphas would have the
> opposite of the intended effect, a "proof" of his explanation.


Uh?
Alphas are stopped in large carbon particles - Oh, all right,
greatly slowed?

...  I discovered a very curious effect when I lived in an
> old flat in a depressed part of England.  I would use a liquid paraffin
> heater when I ran out of coal. /// I discovered the heater would
> flame out after a time.  /// I suspect if the heater was not self 
> extinguishing w/
> low O2 supply, I wouldn't be writing this.


Kerosene unvented heaters are on sale at most hardwares in the US.
The makers apparently take care to minimize the lethal  CO production
(boasting of "blue flame") and the CO2 production is physiologically
observable - unlike the O2 depletion.   This might be a factor in
BC's survival.



Brian Whatcott    Altus OK    Eureka!