The first gamma ray source to be discovered was the radioactive decay process called gamma decay. In this type of decay, an See more

Gamma rays provide information about some of the most energetic phenomena in the universe; however, they are largely absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere. Instruments aboard … See more

The following table shows radiation quantities in SI and non-SI units:
The measure of the ionizing effect of gamma and X-rays … See more

The conventional distinction between X-rays and gamma rays has changed over time. Originally, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by See more

Natural sources of gamma rays on Earth include gamma decay from naturally occurring radioisotopes such as potassium-40, … See more

Penetration of matter
Due to their penetrating nature, gamma rays require large amounts of shielding mass to reduce them to levels which are not harmful to living … See more

Gamma rays cause damage at a cellular level and are penetrating, causing diffuse damage throughout the body. However, they are less ionising than alpha or beta particles, which are less penetrating.
Low levels of gamma rays cause a stochastic See more