1. Increase the Distance: Radioactive decay follows an inverse square law. This means that the intensity of radiation decreases rapidly as the distance from the source increases. Moving the Geiger counter further away from the sample will significantly reduce the number of radioactive particles reaching the detector, lowering the count rate.
2. Shielding: Use a material that absorbs the type of radiation being emitted. For example:
* Lead: Effective against beta and gamma radiation.
* Plastic: Effective against alpha radiation.
* Water: Can be used as shielding for beta and gamma radiation, particularly in large quantities.
By placing a shield between the radioactive sample and the Geiger counter, you can block a significant portion of the radiation, reducing the number of particles detected and lowering the count rate.
