Alpha, Beta and Gamma Particles

In general, there are three types of radioactive

particles. Alpha, beta and gamma radiation can be emitted from any
unstable nucleus of an atom. These types of radiation are very
different from one another,

An alpha particle is essentially a helium nucleus. Under certain

conditions, a large nucleus may give off these particles. An alpha
particle is two protons and two neutrons. An alpha particle has a
positive charge. An alpha particle in isotopic notation looks like this:

Alpha particles are very large in comparison to beta and gamma. An

alpha particle has very low penetrating ability. People can protect
themselves against an alpha particle by using a sheet of paper, which
will deflect the alpha particle. Human skin is not affected by alpha
particles. However, internal organs that have little to no protection
can be harmed by alpha particles. Alpha particles, although easily
blocked, can cause a good deal of damage to internal organs because
of their size. Therefore, alpha particles are considered ionizing
radiation.

A beta particle is essentially a free electron. When a beta particle is

released, the electron comes flying out of the nucleus. A beta particle
has a negative charge. A beta particle in isotopic notation looks like
this:

Beta particles, which are much smaller than alpha particles, have
more penetrating ability. A piece of aluminum foil is required to
deflect a beta particle. Beta particles are ionizing radiation, and can
penetrate the skin and cause damage to skin and nerve cells.

Gamma radiation is produced from the release of pure energy from a

nucleus. A gamma ray has no mass and no charge, it is simply a
stream of high frequency energy. A gamma particle in isotopic
notation looks like this:
Gamma rays have no mass, which makes them more difficult to
stop. Protection against gamma radiation requires several inches of
lead to shield against the radiation. Gamma radiation can travel
through every component of the human body, and the radiation when
absorbed can cause genetic mutations in living cells.

A diagram of the three particles penetrating ability is shown below:

For more information on Alpha, Beta and Gamma Radiation: