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The spontaneous radioactive decay of atomic particles in the form of energy or electromagnetic radiation is referred to as radiation in radioactivity. The magnetic and electric fields deflect alpha and beta particles, but electromagnetic waves with very small wavelengths produce gamma rays. Alpha, beta, and gamma particles or rays have different charge, mass, velocity, and penetrating properties. The emission of alpha-beta and gamma rays from various radiation sources is independent of the surrounding pressure, temperature, pH scale, and specific heat. Because the activation energy for radioactive radiation is zero, this is the case. Particles such as alpha, beta, and gamma rays are emitted by an atom during radioactivity as a result of an unstable atom attempting to gain stability. As a result, atoms eventually decay by emitting a particle that transforms the nucleus into a lower energy state when they are unstable. This decaying process continues until the nucleus reaches a stable state. These radiations are emitted by an atom’s nucleus. Their behaviour differs, though all three cause some ionisation and have some penetration power. Let’s go over the properties of beta, alpha, and gamma one at a time.
Alpha particles or alpha rays (symbol ) are a stream of positively charged particles with a charge of +2 and a mass number of 4. Rutherford demonstrated that the alpha particle has the same nuclei as a helium atom. As a result, the alpha particle is a doubly charged helium ion (He+2) with mass number 4 and atomic number 2.
The stream of negatively charged particles known as a beta particle, beta ray, or beta radiation (symbol). The properties of a beta particle are identical to those of an electron based on the study of deflection in a magnetic or electric field. As a result, the e/m values of beta ray or electron = 1.77 × 108 coulombs/g.
Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation with a very short wavelength (λ ∼ 0.004 – 4 Å). These are extremely energetic photons. Gamma rays are emitted as a byproduct of all nuclear reactions. Gamma rays have no charge or mass. As a result, gamma-ray radiation cannot change the mass number or atomic number of mother elements. In most nuclear reactions, the emission of gamma rays is not observed.
Properties of Alpha Rays
Positively charged particles are alpha rays. The alpha particle is a highly active and energetic helium atom composed of two neutrons and protons. These particles have the least penetration power but the greatest ionisation power. Because of their high ionisation power, they can cause serious harm if they enter the body. They are capable of ionising a large number of atoms over a short distance. It is due to the fact that radioactive substances that emit alpha particles must be handled while wearing rubber gloves.
Properties of Beta Rays
The inner nucleus releases extremely energetic electrons known as beta particles. They have a negligible mass and a negative charge. When a beta particle emits, a neutron in the nucleus splits into a proton and an electron. As a result, the electron is rapidly emitted by the nucleus. When compared to alpha particles, beta particles have a greater penetration power and can easily pass through the skin. Even though their ionisation power is low, beta particles can be dangerous and should be avoided if they come into contact with the body.
Properties of Gamma Rays
Gamma rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation. They have the shortest wavelength and the highest frequency of all the types of radiation. Gamma rays are produced by the decay of radioactive materials and by nuclear explosions.
Gamma rays are very powerful and can penetrate materials, including human tissue, very easily. They can cause severe burns and radiation sickness. Gamma rays can also be used to kill cancer cells and to sterilize medical equipment.
FAQs
What are the applications of gamma rays?
Gamma rays are forms of ionising electromagnetic radiation produced by the decay of an atomic nucleus. Gamma rays, on the other hand, are more penetrating and can cause significant damage to living cells. Gamma rays are extremely useful in fields such as medicine (radiotherapy), industry (sterilisation and disinfection), and the nuclear industry.
What is the difference between alpha and beta radiation?
The emission of an alpha particle and helium nuclei is referred to as alpha radiation, the emission of electrons or positrons is referred to as beta radiation, and the emission of energetic photons is referred to as gamma radiation.
