Final answer:
X-rays have a lower LET value indicating less energy transfer and ionization per unit distance, while alpha particles have a higher LET, indicating more energy transfer and higher ionizing potential.
Step-by-step explanation:
X-rays have an LET of low keV/um, while alpha particles have an LET of high keV/um. Linear Energy Transfer (LET) is a measure of the energy transferred from ionizing radiation (such as alpha particles and X-rays) to the biological tissue as it passes through it. This concept is crucial in understanding the extent of damage different types of radiation can cause to biological tissues. Alpha particles have a much higher LET compared to X-rays because they are heavier and carry more energy, resulting in stronger ionizing potential, which means they can do more damage but are easy to shield against. On the other hand, X-rays have a lower LET as they are electromagnetic waves and can penetrate deeper into tissues with less ionization per unit distance.