RADIATION TYPESRadiation DetectorsSummaryAlpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation are summarized below.Radiation Types SummaryAlpha particlesThe alpha particle is a helium nucleus produced from the radioactive decay ofheavy metals and some nuclear reactions.The high positive charge of an alpha particle causes electrical excitation andionization of surrounding atoms.Beta particlesThe beta particle is an ordinary electron or positron ejected from the nucleus ofa beta-unstable radioactive atom.The interaction of a beta particle and an orbital electron leads to electricalexcitation and ionization of the orbital electron.Gamma raysThe gamma ray is a photon of electromagnetic radiation with a very shortwavelength and high energy.The three methods of attenuating gamma-rays are: photoelectric effect, comptonscattering, and pair production.NeutronsNeutrons have no electrical charge and have nearly the same mass as a proton(a hydrogen atom nucleus).Neutrons collide with nuclei, causing one of the following reactions: inelasticscattering, elastic scattering, radiative capture, or fission.IC-06 Page 10 Rev. 0
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