gammarays
Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with the highest energies and shortest wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum. They are typically produced by radioactive decay, nuclear transitions, and certain high-energy processes in space. Photon energies commonly exceed 100 keV (0.1 MeV) and wavelengths are shorter than about 0.01 nanometers. Because of their penetrating power, gamma rays require dense shielding to reduce exposure.
Natural sources include gamma rays from radioactive decay in rocks and the atmosphere, as well as cosmic
Gamma rays interact with matter mainly through the photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and, at higher energies,
Detection and measurement are performed with scintillation detectors (for example, sodium iodide) and semiconductor detectors such
Safety and regulation emphasize minimized exposure, monitoring, and proper licensing of sealed sources. Common units include