In: Physics
Given a selection of ionizing particles at the same energy, which is biologically most harmful?
Select one:
a. alpha particles (helium nuclei)
b. X-rays
c. Beta particles (electrons)
d. protons
e. slow neutrons
Alpha particles are unable to penetrate the outer layer of dead skin cells. Beta radiation takes the form of either an electron or a positron being emitted from an atom. It can penetrate skin a few centimeters. Gamma radiation is highly energetic photons that can penetrate much farther as it has no mass and charge. X-rays are similar to gamma radiation, X-Rays are longer-wavelength and (usually) lower energy than gamma radiation and hence less harmful than gamma radiation. Neutrons are neutral particles and able to travel hundreds or even thousands of meters in air, they are however able to be effectively stopped if blocked by a hydrogen-rich material, such as concrete or water.
Hence slow neutrons are biologically most harmful.