GammastrahlenDickenmessgeräte

GammastrahlenD refers to gamma radiation, a form of electromagnetic radiation with extremely high energy. Gamma rays are produced by radioactive decay and are also generated in high-energy astrophysical processes. They have no mass or electric charge and travel at the speed of light.

In terms of the electromagnetic spectrum, gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths and highest frequencies, placing them beyond X-rays. This high energy allows them to penetrate matter deeply, making them useful in applications like medical imaging (e.g., PET scans) and cancer treatment (radiotherapy). However, their penetrating power also makes them hazardous to living tissues, as they can damage DNA and cells.

Sources of gamma radiation include naturally occurring radioactive isotopes in the Earth's crust, cosmic rays, and nuclear reactions. In astronomy, gamma-ray bursts are the most luminous electromagnetic events known in the universe, believed to originate from the collapse of massive stars or the merger of neutron stars. Shielding against gamma radiation typically requires dense materials like lead or concrete. Understanding and managing gamma radiation is crucial for safety in nuclear facilities and for its beneficial applications in medicine and industry.