Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of radiation detection?

The correct answer indicates that a strong odor of sulfur is not a characteristic of radiation detection. Unlike the other options, which can be associated with specific phenomena or behaviors of certain types of radiation, a sulfur smell does not have any relevance to radiation detection.

To elaborate, radiation detection typically relies on physical or visual characteristics. The green glow is often associated with certain types of radiation, particularly in the presence of substances like radium or as a result of Cherenkov radiation. Intense heat can be produced in some detection methods, such as those involving Geiger counters, which may warm up during operation or in response to radiation. A crackling sound can occur with certain types of radiation detection devices, especially when they are actively registering radiation events.

In contrast, a strong odor of sulfur is not linked to the detection of radiation and does not indicate the presence or absence of radioactive materials. Additionally, it may be misleading, as odors typically come from chemical interactions rather than radiation itself. This makes the choice of strong odor of sulfur the only option that does not represent a true characteristic of radiation detection.