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Why is the source of alpha radiation usually inside the body?

The degree to which each different type of radiation is most dangerous to the body depends on whether the source is outside or inside the body. If the radioactive source is inside the body, perhaps after being swallowed or breathed in: alpha radiation is the most dangerous because it is easily absorbed by cells.

Why is having an alpha source inside the body more harmful than having a source of gamma radiation outside the body?

Alpha particles lack the energy to penetrate even the outer layer of skin, so exposure to the outside of the body is not a major concern. … The ionizations they cause are very close together – they can release all their energy in a few cells. This results in more severe damage to cells and DNA.

Why is alpha radiation inside the body harmful?

It is highly ionizing so can cause cancer by ionizing DNA. It is safe outside the body as skin/layer of grease on skin/clothing will absorb alpha particles, so an alpha source is only dangerous if it gets inside the body.

Are gamma rays absorbed by the body?

Gamma radiation is the most penetrating of the three radiations. It can easily penetrate body tissue. It requires a few centimetres of lead or about 1 metre of concrete to absorb it.

Where does alpha radiation come from?

Alpha particles (a) are composite particles consisting of two protons and two neutrons tightly bound together (Figure 1). They are emitted from the nucleus of some radionuclides during a form of radioactive decay, called alpha-decay.

Why are alpha particles positively charged?

An alpha particles is positively charged because it is essentially the nucleus of a Helium-4 atom. A Helium-4 nucleus is composed of two protons, which are positively charged particles, and two neutrons, which have no electric charge.

Which is more harmful alpha beta or gamma?

Alpha particles are the most harmful internal hazard as compared with gamma rays and beta particles. Radioactive materials that emit alpha and beta particles are most harmful when swallowed, inhaled, absorbed, or injected. Gamma rays are the most harmful external hazard.

Is alpha radiation electromagnetic?

electromagnetic radiation, such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, x-rays, and gamma radiation (γ) particle radiation, such as alpha radiation (α), beta radiation (β), proton radiation and neutron radiation (particles of non-zero rest energy)

What is the difference between alpha beta and gamma radiation?

Alpha particles carry a positive charge, beta particles carry a negative charge, and gamma rays are neutral. An alpha particle is made up of two protons and two neutrons bound together. Beta particles are high energy electrons. Gamma rays are waves of electromagnetic energy, or photons.