Frequencies penetrate lead

In physics , radiation is the emission or transmission of energy in the form of waves or particles through space or through a material medium. Radiation is often categorized as either ionizing or non-ionizing depending on the energy of the radiated particles. Ionizing radiation carries more than 10 eV , which is enough to ionize atoms and molecules and break chemical bonds. This is an important distinction due to the large difference in harmfulness to living organisms. Other sources include X-rays from medical radiography examinations and muons , mesons , positrons, neutrons and other particles that constitute the secondary cosmic rays that are produced after primary cosmic rays interact with Earth's atmosphere.

It consists of the shortest wavelength electromagnetic waves and so imparts the highest photon energy. Paul Villard , a French chemist and physicist , discovered gamma radiation in while studying radiation emitted by radium. In , Ernest Rutherford named this radiation gamma rays based on their relatively strong penetration of matter ; in he had already named two less penetrating types of decay radiation discovered by Henri Becquerel alpha rays and beta rays in ascending order of penetrating power. The energy spectrum of gamma rays can be used to identify the decaying radionuclides using gamma spectroscopy.

After reading this section you will be able to do the following:. How deep will radiation penetrate into a material? Now that we have looked at the interaction that the radiation has with matter, let's consider the radiation ability to penetrate materials.

Frequently Asked Questions. About EMF Shielding. Why am I only seeing 20 dB? Distance Use extension cords to increase distance.