What are the different types of Radiation?

X-RAYS and GAMMA RAYS are both forms of electromagnetic energy similar to radio waves, microwaves, and light. The difference is that they have a higher energy; high enough to penetrate matter and to cause ionization. Because, like light, x-rays and gamma rays have no mass, they are the most penetrating types of radiation and require the most shielding.

ALPHA and BETA RADIATION are small particles that are released from an atom and travel at high velocities. Since alpha and beta radiation have mass, they do not penetrate matter very well. Alphas travel less than one inch in air, betas can travel from a few inches to a few feet in air, depending upon their energy. Consequently, the main hazards come from direct contact with the skin, inhalation, or ingestion.

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