Physics – 5.2.5 Safety precautions | e-Consult
5.2.5 Safety precautions (1 questions)
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| Alpha Particles | Beta Particles | Gamma Rays |
| Paper/Skin | Plastic/Aluminum | Lead/Thick Concrete |
Explanation:
- Alpha Particles: Alpha particles are relatively heavy and have a double positive charge. They interact strongly with matter and are easily stopped by a thin sheet of paper or even the outer layer of skin.
- Beta Particles: Beta particles are electrons or positrons and are lighter and more penetrating than alpha particles. They can be stopped by a thin sheet of plastic or aluminum.
- Gamma Rays: Gamma rays are high-energy photons and are the most penetrating type of ionising radiation. They require dense materials like lead or thick concrete to be effectively shielded. The shielding material needs to be dense enough to absorb or scatter the gamma rays.