What is the primary purpose of a nuclear gauge?

The primary purpose of a nuclear gauge is to measure the density and moisture content of materials. This type of gauge utilizes radioactive isotopes and their interaction with matter to provide accurate measurements of these properties in various materials, such as soil, concrete, and asphalt. The measurement process typically involves emitting radiation that interacts with the material being measured; the properties of this interaction allow for calculations that indicate both density and moisture content.

In many applications, particularly in construction and civil engineering, knowing the density and moisture levels is critical for ensuring quality control and adherence to safety standards. This is especially important in environments where these factors can significantly affect the structural integrity of materials used in construction.

Other options focus on different aspects of measurement. One option relates to temperature fluctuations, which is not within the capabilities of nuclear gauges. Another option discusses detecting radiation levels, which pertains more to radiation safety monitoring rather than the core purpose of a nuclear gauge. Lastly, analyzing chemical composition falls under different analytical methods, such as chemical assays or spectrometric techniques, rather than the density and moisture measurements provided by nuclear gauges.