Gamma radiation Flashcards
What is gamma radiation simply?
High-energy electromagnetic radiation
At what speed does gamma radiation travel?
At the speed of light i.e. faster than both alpha and beta particles
Since gamma radiation does not consist of charged particles, what fields is it not deflected in?
Electric fields or magnetic fields
Why is gamma radiation not deflected in electric or magnetic fields?
as it does not consist of charged particles
When is gamma radiation emitted?
When an unstable nucleus needs to lose surplus energy ( in the form of gamma radiation)
What penetrating ability does gamma radiation have?
A very high penetrating ability
What is the only material which will stop the penetrating ability of gamma radiation?
A thick slab of lead
Why is gamma radiation so dangerous to humans?
In large quantities gamma radiation changes the structure of the chemicals in humans to give rise to cancer
What is one benefit of gamma radiation?
Cobalt-60 gives of gamma rays which can be used to kill cancerous cells when focused onto cancerous tissue
What is an example of an element that gives off gamma rays?
Cobalt-60
Write a note on gamma radiation.
9 points
High-energy electromagnetic radiation
Travels at the speed of light
Does not consist of charged particles
Not deflected in electric or magnetic fields
Emitted when an unstable nucleus needs to lose surplus energy
High penetrating power
Only stopped by thick slab of lead
Gives rise to cancer
Cobalt-60 emits gamma rays used to treat cancer
