Types of Radiation

We have basically three main forms of radiations which accompany radioactivity. These are Alpha rays (α), Beta ray (β) and Gamma rays (γ).

Summary of properties of α, β and γ

Nature Alpha rays α Beta rays β Gamma rays γ
Mass 4 1

1840

No mass
Chemical symbol 4 He

2

O – 1e
Electrical charge +2 -1 No charge
Relative penetration 1 100 10,000
Ionization ability Highest Moderate Least
Absorber Thin paper Metal paper-like Aluminum foil Large lead block

Leave a Comment

not allowed!