Radioactivity
We perform radioactivity measurements, gamma radiation tests on metals and oxide materials.
What is Radioactivity?
Radioactivity, also known as radiation, is something that exists all around us. Every day, we are exposed to radiation from sources like space, the sun, various building materials, and radioactive substances in the ground. There are also artificial sources of radiation created by humans, such as X-rays or nuclear power.
Radioactivity is the process where the nucleus of an atom spontaneously decays and emits ionizing radiation. This happens because the atomic nucleus contains too much energy to remain stable. Therefore, these atoms are called unstable or radioactive. All elements with an atomic number above 82 are unstable, though many other elements also have isotopes that are radioactive.
Different Types of Radioactivity
Radioactivity is divided into two categories: electromagnetic radiation and particle radiation. Within these categories, we distinguish between alpha radiation, beta radiation, and gamma radiation.
Particle Radiation
Particle radiation consists of particles emitted by atomic nuclei that are decaying. This type of radiation is highly energetic and can knock electrons away from atoms it encounters, turning them into ions, which are positively charged particles. This is why particle radiation is also referred to as ionizing radiation. Particle radiation is further divided into alpha and beta radiation.
Electromagnetic Radiation
This type of radiation consists of electromagnetic waves that propagate through the air. Electromagnetic radiation can come from sources like the sun (UV radiation) or even a microwave oven. Generally, electromagnetic radiation is less harmful than particle radiation, meaning it is often non-ionizing. However, there are exceptions where electromagnetic radiation is ionizing and can be more dangerous than particle radiation.
Alpha Radiation
Alpha radiation is a type of particle radiation that consists of helium nuclei. These are emitted when certain atomic nuclei decay. Alpha radiation has a range of only a few centimeters in the air and can be stopped by a piece of paper.
Beta Radiation
Beta radiation is another form of particle radiation, but unlike alpha radiation, beta radiation emits electrons. This type of radiation has a range of a few meters in the air and can be blocked by thick clothing, for example.
Gamma Radiation
Gamma radiation consists of electromagnetic radiation emitted when radioactive substances decay. To stop it, you need several centimeters of lead or several decimeters of concrete.