Question
Download Solution PDFWhich type of radiation has the highest penetrating power?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 3 : Gamma rays
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Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFCorrect Answer: Gamma rays
Rationale:
- Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with the highest energy and shortest wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum. Their high energy allows them to penetrate most materials, including human tissue, making them highly penetrating compared to other types of radiation.
- Gamma rays are often used in medical treatments, such as cancer radiotherapy, and in industrial applications for non-destructive testing and imaging.
Explanation of Other Options:
Alpha particles
- Rationale: Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, making them relatively heavy and highly charged. As a result, they have low penetration power and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin.
Beta particles
- Rationale: Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei. They have greater penetration power than alpha particles but are still relatively weak compared to gamma rays. Beta particles can be stopped by materials such as plastic, glass, or a few millimeters of aluminum.
X-rays
- Rationale: X-rays are also a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to gamma rays, but with slightly lower energy. They have significant penetration power and are widely used in medical imaging and diagnostic radiography. However, they are not as penetrating as gamma rays.
Conclusion:
- Among the given options, gamma rays possess the highest penetrating power due to their high energy and short wavelength. This characteristic makes them useful for various applications, including medical treatments and industrial inspections. Understanding the penetration power of different types of radiation is crucial for their safe and effective use.
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