Final answer:
A smoke detector is used in dirty environments, less sensitive than other types, and areas where smoke is produced. It contains an electric circuit with two metal plates and a small amount of the radioactive element americium. The smoke particles disrupt the flow of ions and trigger an alarm when they enter the smoke detector.
Step-by-step explanation:
The detector used in dirty environments, less sensitive than other types, and areas where smoke is produced is a smoke detector. A typical smoke detector contains an electric circuit with two metal plates and a small amount of the radioactive element americium. The radioactivity of the americium ionizes the air between the plates, causing a constant flow of current. When smoke particles from a fire enter the smoke detector, they disrupt the flow of ions and interrupt the current, triggering an alarm.