Alpha, beta and gamma properties Flashcards
1
Q
what is the most ionising type of radiation
A
alpha, with gamma as the least ionising
2
Q
what material blocks alpha radiation
A
alpha is the least penetrating type of radiation
it can be stopped by a single piece of paper
3
Q
what is the typical range of alpha radiation
A
1-10cm (this is due to it being the least penetrating type of radiation)
4
Q
what material blocks beta radiation
A
a few millimetres of aluminium foil
5
Q
what is the typical range of beta radiation
A
1-2 metres
6
Q
what material blocks gamma radiation
A
thick lead or concrete
7
Q
what is the range of gamma radiation
A
infinite range
8
Q
why is gamma radiation the least ionising
A
it is an electromagnetic wave with no charge
