GAMMA RAYS

By Anish
Grade 9A
 Index

About Gamma Rays

The Applications of Gamma Rays

About Gamma Rays

 Gamma (γ) rays are high energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by an atomic nucleus during
radioactive decay.
 Gamma radiation easily passes through paper, skin and aluminum but can be partly blocked by
thick lead or concrete because Gamma rays have a high penetrating power.
 Gamma ray emission causes no change in the number of particles in the nucleus meaning both the
protons and neutrons (nucleons) remain the same.
 In the electromagnetic spectrum, Gamma rays are present beside X-rays towards left. They have
the shortest wavelength of 10-12 m to less than 10-14 m and have the highest frequency greater than
about 1021 Hertz.
 Gamma (γ) rays are uncharged, and it moves fastest of all. This mean that it is least readily
absorbed in air, and therefore is the least Ionizing.
The Application of Gamma Rays

 Sterilize surgical instruments

to kill any bacteria.
 Sterilize food (irradiated food)
 Used as tracers in medicine
 Used in the detection of
cancer and kills cancerous
cells
 Gamma-Ray Astronomy

Tracers in medicine Gamma-Ray Astronomy