Gamma radiation
Gamma radiation
Gamma radiation (pronounced /ˈɡæmə/), also known as gamma rays (denoted as γ), is a type of ionizing radiation that is extremely high-frequency and therefore high-energy. It is produced by subatomic particle interactions, such as electron-positron annihilation, neutron decay, or radioactive decay of radionuclides.
Etymology
The term "gamma ray" is derived from the Greek letter gamma (γ). It was first used by the British physicist Paul Ulrich Villard in 1900, during his experiments on radioactivity.
Properties
Gamma rays have the smallest wavelengths and the most energy of any other wave in the electromagnetic spectrum. They are capable of penetrating matter and ionizing atoms, which can damage living cells and DNA. However, they are also used in medicine for radiation therapy and medical imaging.
Related terms
- Alpha radiation
- Beta radiation
- X-rays
- Radiation therapy
- Medical imaging
- Ionizing radiation
- Radioactivity
- Radionuclide
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gamma radiation
- Wikipedia's article - Gamma radiation
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