What are Gamma Rays?

Gamma rays, also known as gamma radiation, are high-energy electromagnetic waves with frequencies higher
than X-rays and UV light. They're produced when electrons are accelerated to very high energies, like in
supernovae or near black holes. They have very short wavelengths, so they can penetrate matter almost
undisturbed, making them useful for studying hidden objects.

Alter Properties of Precious Stones Gamma rays are highly energetic in nature. This characteristic of gamma
radiations can be used in altering the basic properties of precious stones and gems. The stones and gems are
artificially irradiated with gamma rays to enhance their optical properties.

Irradiation of Art Objects Gamma rays are mostly used by museums and art studios to restore or
preserve a piece of art. For the purpose of restoring an art piece, the object is exposed to high-
frequency gamma rays.
Gamma rays play a vital role in astronomy, particularly in gamma-ray telescopes. These telescopes detect and
study high-energy celestial phenomena, such as gamma-ray bursts, black holes, and supernovae, providing
insights into the universe's most energetic events.

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Advantages:
High Resolution: Offers detailed imaging for accurate diagnoses.

Sensitivity & Specificity: Effective in detecting anomalies or diseases.

Possibility of Early Detection: Helps identify conditions in their early stages.

Disadvantages:
Cell Damage: Can harm healthy cells alongside targeted ones.

Unsafe for Pregnant Women: Risks fetal health.

Side Effects: Nausea, hair loss, skin burns, and organ function impairment. High Doses: Exposure to lethal
doses can be fatal within a few months.
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How are gamma waves used on Earth?

Tracers in Medicine:

In medical imaging, gamma rays act as tracers, helping to visualize internal organs and systems to diagnose
conditions or monitor bodily functions without invasive procedures.

Radiotherapy:

In oncology, gamma rays are utilized in radiation therapy to target and kill cancerous cells. High-energy
gamma rays are directed at specific areas to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding
healthy tissue.

Sterilization of Medical Equipment Gamma rays are used in the medical field for the purpose of
sterilization of surgical instruments. The irradiation of the surgical equipment with high energy
gamma radiations cause the bacterial DNA to break down, thereby preventing the microorganisms to
undergo any further division and reproduction.

Food Sterilization Gamma rays are mostly used for the sterilization of food because gamma rays are
high energy radiations that can penetrate through rigid objects easily, thereby ensuring deep
sterilization by killing the bacteria, pathogens, and insects present in the food items. Another
advantage of using gamma rays to sterilize food is that they are suitable for all types of food items
including dry, moist, and frozen food items.

Extreme Energies: The energy of gamma rays can be in the millions or even billions of electron volts,
making them vastly more energetic than X-rays.
Nuclear Aurora: Gamma rays can create auroras on other planets. On Jupiter, for example, they
contribute to the stunning gamma-ray auroras near the planet's poles.
Medical Marvel: Gamma rays are used in cancer treatment through a process called gamma knife
radiosurgery, where focused gamma rays are directed precisely at a tumor.
Cosmic Powerhouses: Gamma-ray bursts, which release an incredible amount of gamma rays, are
among the most energetic events in the universe, outshining entire galaxies for brief moments.
Gamma in Everyday Life: Gamma rays have practical applications, such as sterilizing medical
equipment and food, demonstrating their importance beyond astrophysics and nuclear physics.