Which device interrupts the current flow in an ionization smoke detector when smoke particles attach to ions?

In an ionization smoke detector, an electrode is crucial for the device's operation. These detectors consist of a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air in a sensing chamber, creating a constant flow of ions between two electrodes. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they attach to the ions, which disrupts the flow of current between the electrodes. This interruption in current flow triggers the alarm, signaling the presence of smoke.

The role of the electrode is to facilitate this ion flow and detect changes caused by the presence of smoke. By understanding how the flow of ions is affected by smoke particles, one can grasp the fundamental operation of ionization smoke detectors and their response to fire.