Which device is best suited for measuring air contaminants?

The photoionization detector (PID) is the best choice for measuring air contaminants because it is specifically designed to detect and quantify various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemical substances in the air. PIDs work by using ultraviolet light to ionize gas molecules, which then produces a measurable electrical current proportional to the concentration of these compounds. This makes them highly effective and versatile for monitoring air quality, particularly in environments where there may be harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.

Other devices, while useful for different purposes, do not offer the same comprehensive capability for measuring a wide range of organic and inorganic air contaminants. A radiation survey meter is primarily focused on radiation measurement, making it unsuitable for detecting gas contaminants. An oxygen concentration meter solely measures oxygen levels, which is important in assessing air quality but does not capture the presence of harmful pollutants. A flame ionization detector (FID), while effective for certain gases, is primarily used in laboratory settings for analyzing hydrocarbons and may not be as adaptable as a PID for general air quality monitoring. This specificity and versatility of the PID make it a superior choice for assessing air contaminants in various settings.