Which type of radiation has the greatest penetrating power?
Correct answer: C. Gamma
- A. Alpha
- B. Beta
- C. Gamma
- D. All are equal
Explanation
Gamma rays are uncharged electromagnetic radiation and need several centimetres of lead or a metre of concrete to attenuate them appreciably, whereas beta particles are stopped by a few millimetres of aluminium and alpha by paper. Penetrating power and ionising power run in opposite directions, so alpha ionises most heavily but travels least far. That is why an alpha emitter is most dangerous when it is inhaled or swallowed.
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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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