Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Types of Ionizing Radiation

X-rays and Gamma rays> They have great penetrating power thats why they can pass the human body. For us humans, thick barriers of concrete, lead or water is our protection from them.

Alpha particles> In the form of atomic nuclei,they consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. They also have large large size, thats the reason why they easily lose their energy quickly. Therefore they have little penetrating power but and can just only be stop by the first layer of our skin.
Cosmic Radiation> This ionizing radiation consists of energetic particles. At higher sea levels it is more intense. This is where our earth's atmosphere is most dense that gives much protection.

Neutrons> These are particles that come from fissioning or splitting of an atom. They are very penetrating. We use water and concrete also for protection against this type of radiation.

Posted by Jennylyn Susaya III- Linnaeus at 3:59 PM