Question

Identify and describe in general terms the different quality assurance levels.

a) Alpha, beta, and gamma
b) Low, medium, and high
c) Preliminary, detailed, and final
d) Internal and external

Answer 1

Alpha particles have high ionizing power but low penetration; beta particles have moderate ionizing power with greater penetration than alpha particles; gamma rays have low ionizing power but very high penetration power.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks to compare qualitatively the ionizing and penetration power of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Alpha particles, which consist of two protons and two neutrons, have high ionizing power but low penetration ability, being stopped by something as thin as a sheet of paper or even the skin. In contrast, beta particles, which are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons, have moderate ionizing power and greater penetration than alpha particles, being able to pass through paper but stopped by thin metal or a layer of clothing. Lastly, gamma rays, which are high-energy electromagnetic waves, have low ionizing power but extremely high penetration power, requiring thick lead or concrete to reduce their intensity.