Types

Properties:

• Alpha: Low penetration (stopped by paper), high ionization (strongly interacts with matter), 2 neutrons and 2 protons are lost

• Beta: Moderate penetration (stopped by aluminum), moderate ionization, Neutron is turned into a proton

• Gamma: High penetration (stopped by lead/concrete), low ionization (passes through most materials without strong interactions). (PHOTON)

Active Learning: Use a chart to compare the mass, charge, penetration power, and ionization ability of each type of radiation.

Ionization ability is how easily a type of radiation can remove electrons from atoms.

Alpha particles: High ionization ability (big and highly charged, easily removes electrons)

Beta particles: Moderate ionization ability (smaller but still interacts with matter)

Gamma particles: Low ionization ability (no charge, little or no interaction at all)