What radiation, alpha, beta, or gamma, has the largest attenuation in matter? What radiation has the...

90.2K

Verified Solution

Question

Physics

What radiation, alpha, beta, or gamma, has the largestattenuation in matter? What radiation has the smallest attenuationin matter?

I think the wording of this question is weird. I thoughtattenuation was similar to absorption because the rays lose powerwhen entering matter. Could some one help me out?

Answer & Explanation Solved by verified expert

4.4 Ratings (575 Votes)

Gamma rays are attenuated by processes which are functions of atomic number and mass that is they all involve interactions near the nucleus or interactions with the electrons around the nucleus Gamma shielding is therefore more effectively performed by materials with high atomic mass number and high density One such material is lead Lead is dense and has about 82 electrons for each nucleus Thus a gamma would interact more times in passing through eight inches of lead then passing through the same thickness of a lighter material such as water As the gamma interacts with the shielding material it See Answer

Get Answers to Unlimited Questions

Join us to gain access to millions of questions and expert answers. Enjoy exclusive benefits tailored just for you!

Membership Benefits:

Unlimited Question Access with detailed Answers
Zin AI - 3 Million Words
10 Dall-E 3 Images
20 Plot Generations
Conversation with Dialogue Memory
No Ads, Ever!
Access to Our Best AI Platform: Flex AI - Your personal assistant for all your inquiries!

Become a Member