If the penetration power of gamma rays is compared to the penetration power of alpha and beta particles, then which of the following options is CORRECT?
Correct answer: D. D) Gamma rays have greater penetration power than both alpha and beta particles.
- A. A) Gamma rays have less penetration power than alpha particles.
- B. B) Gamma rays have less penetration power than beta particles.
- C. C) Gamma rays have the same penetration power as alpha particles.
- D. D) Gamma rays have greater penetration power than both alpha and beta particles.
Explanation
Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation with no mass and no charge, allowing them to penetrate materials far more deeply than charged particles like alpha and beta particles. Alpha particles, being heavy and positively charged, have the least penetration power and are stopped by paper or skin. Beta particles, which are lighter and carry a negative charge, have moderate penetration power but are stopped by materials like plastic or glass. Gamma rays, however, require dense materials like lead or concrete to be effectively blocked. Thus, option D is correct. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they underestimate the penetration power of gamma rays compared to alpha and beta particles.
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About Radioactive Decay
Radioactive decay is the spontaneous transformation of unstable nuclei, described by decay constant, activity, half life and the exponential decay law. Work includes alpha, beta and gamma emissions, decay equations and remaining nuclei, with half life distinguished from the time required for complete decay.
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