How can radiation presence be determined?

The presence of radiation can be effectively determined using a radiation detector, which is specifically designed to detect and measure radioactive materials or radiation levels. These detectors can identify various types of radiation, including alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, providing real-time measurements that are crucial for assessing safety in environments where radiation may be present.

While the other options might seem plausible, they do not provide a reliable method for detecting radiation. For instance, using our senses is insufficient because radiation is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it undetectable without the aid of proper instruments. Observing environmental changes may indicate a potential radiation issue, but it is not a definitive method; many environmental changes can occur for reasons unrelated to radiation. Personal protective equipment is essential for safety in a potentially contaminated area but does not offer any means to detect radiation itself. Therefore, the most reliable and accurate method for determining the presence of radiation is through the use of a radiation detector.