Question

You are building a uniform to protect workers from all types of nuclear radiation. If you use material that blocks _____ radiation, then it will probably protect against the other two types.

a. gamma
b. half-life
c. beta
d. alpha

Answer 1

If a material blocks gamma radiation, then it will probably protect against alpha and beta radiation. Alpha particles are large and slow-moving, thus having very little penetrating power. Beta particles are fast-moving, and can penetrate the human flesh up to 1 or 2 centimeters. Gamma particles, however, have great penetration and can easily pass through the human flesh.