Gamma Decay
One of the three main types of radioactive decay is known as gamma decay (γ-decay). During gamma decay, the energy of the parent atom is changed by the emission of a photon. The resulting energy of the daughter atom is lower than the parent atom.
A photon is a massless particle with a very small wavelength. The energy of the photon is large and therefore has a large penetration effect. This could lead to serious problems for biological material, such as human tissue.
Examples:
1. The γ-decay of barium-137.
In this example, the parent atom is lowered in energy.
2. The γ-decay of plutonium-240.
In this example, the parent atom is lowered in energy.
A photon is a massless particle with a very small wavelength. The energy of the photon is large and therefore has a large penetration effect. This could lead to serious problems for biological material, such as human tissue.
Examples:
1. The γ-decay of barium-137.
In this example, the parent atom is lowered in energy.
2. The γ-decay of plutonium-240.
In this example, the parent atom is lowered in energy.
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Related Links: Chemistry Nuclear Chemistry Alpha Decay Beta Decay Nuclear Fusion Nuclear Reactions |
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