Whole Body Counters

"Whole Body Counters" by John H. Woodburn and F. W. Lengemann is a scientific publication written in the 1960s, likely during the early part of that decade. The book serves as an educational resource provided by the United States Atomic Energy Commission, focusing on the function and significance of whole body counters—devices used to measure radioactive substances in humans. The primary topic revolves around radiation detection and its implications for human health, especially in the context of nuclear energy and safety. The book describes the design, operation, and applications of whole body counters, including various types such as crystal and liquid scintillation counters. It explains how these instruments detect and measure radioactivity within the body, highlighting their uses in medical research, environmental monitoring, and the effects of radiation exposure. The text also details the historical development of these technologies alongside pertinent case studies, such as examining the effects of nuclear fallout on different populations. Through a clear explanation of scientific principles and various examples, the authors aim to increase public awareness and understanding of radiation's impact on health.