Gamma rays

Definition

Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with the highest photon energies and shortest wavelengths. They are typically produced by nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, and certain types of astronomical phenomena.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gamma rays have photon energies greater than 100 keV (kilo-electron volts).
2. $\text{Gamma rays have wavelengths shorter than about 0.01 nanometers (nm).}$
3. They can penetrate most materials, making them useful in medical imaging and treatments.
4. Gamma rays are ionizing radiation, meaning they can remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, potentially causing damage to biological tissues.
5. $\text{The energy of a gamma-ray photon is given by } E = h \nu , \text{ where } h \text{ is Planck's constant and } \nu \text{ is the frequency.}$

Review Questions

• What is the typical energy range for gamma rays?
• How do gamma rays interact with biological tissues?
• $\text{What formula relates the energy of a gamma-ray photon to its frequency?}$

Related terms

Photon: A quantum of electromagnetic radiation with both particle-like and wave-like properties.

Electromagnetic Spectrum: $\text{The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, from radio waves to gamma rays.}$

$\text{Planck's Constant}$: $A fundamental constant (h) used to describe the sizes of quanta in quantum mechanics; approximately equal to $6.626 \times 10^{-34} J·s.$