Gamma rays

Gamma Rays

By: Vance Leyva

Per. 1

Defined: Gamma rays are the most energetic form of electromagnetic radiation, with a very short wavelength of less than one-tenth of a nanometer. Gamma radiation is the product of radioactive atoms that undergo radioactive decay.

History :The first gamma ray source to be discovered was the radioactive decay process called gamma decay. Paul Villard a French chemist and physicist, discovered gamma radiation in 1900, while studying radiation emitted from radium. Villard knew his described radiation was more powerful than the previously described alpha and beta rays already found.

Defined (cont.)A gamma ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation, which is the radiant energy released by certain electromagnetic processes , and is expressed in waves.

Gamma rays are a product of gamma decay: how the nucleus gets rid of excess energy. In gamma decay the nucleus emits a high-energy photon (electromagnetic radiation), gamma rays , but the number of protons and neutrons stays the same.

Characteristics:

A gamma ray has a typical frequency of 10^19 Hz and wavelengths of around 10^-11 meter. Gamma rays are now usually distinguished by their origin; x-rays are emitted by electrons outside the nucleus while gamma rays are emitted by the nucleus

Real World Examples

Lightning Strikes

Terrestrial gamma ray flashes

Nuclear explosion

Gamma rays are emitted during nuclear fission in nuclear explosions.

Biological:

Gamma rays cause damage at a cellular level and are penetrating, causing severe damage throughout the body.

Low levels of Gama radiation = cancer induction / genetic damage

High levels of Gama radiation = varying severity of are cute tissue damage

Works Cited:

www.wikipedia.org/gama_rays

www.NASA.gov/gammarays

www.livescience.com/50215-gamma-rays