Gamma rays/X rays

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals

Instructor's Notes

3. Gamma rays/X rays

Physical characteristics

EO6 Identify the four basic

types of ionizing radiation

1) Gamma/X-ray radiation is an electromagnetic wave

and the following for each

(electromagnetic radiation) or photon and has no mass

type:

and no electrical charge.

a. Physical characteristics

b. Range

2) Gamma rays are very similar to X rays. The

c. Shielding

difference between gamma rays and X rays is that

d. Biological hazards

gamma rays originate inside the nucleus and X rays

e. Sources

originate in the electron orbits outside the nucleus.

3) Gamma/X-ray radiation can ionize as a result of direct

interactions with orbital electrons.

b. Range

1) Because gamma/X-ray radiation has no charge and no

mass, it has very high penetrating ability.

2) The range in air is very far. It will easily go several

hundred feet.

c. Shielding

Gamma/X-ray radiation is best shielded by very dense

materials, such as lead. Water or concrete, although not

as effective as the same thickness as lead, are also

commonly used, especially if the thickness of shielding is

not limiting.

d. Biological hazards

Gamma/X-ray radiation can result in radiation exposure to

the whole body.

Sources

(Insert facility-specific information.)