Photoelectric smoke detectors are devices designed to detect smoke and alert occupants of a potential fire. They use a light source and a light sensor to identify smoke particles in the air. When smoke enters the detector, it scatters the light, triggering the alarm. These detectors are particularly effective for detecting smoldering fires, which produce more smoke before bursting into flames. Unlike ionization smoke detectors, which are better at detecting fast-flaming fires, photoelectric models provide a broader range of fire detection, making them a popular choice for home safety.