gammsugárzás

Gammasugárzás, often shortened to gamma rays, is a form of electromagnetic radiation. It is the highest energy form of electromagnetic radiation, with wavelengths shorter than X-rays. Gamma rays are produced by nuclear reactions, such as radioactive decay, nuclear fission, and nuclear fusion. They can also be generated by high-energy astrophysical phenomena like supernovae and black holes.

The primary characteristic of gamma rays is their high penetrating power. Unlike alpha and beta particles, gamma rays can pass through significant thicknesses of matter. This makes them both useful and hazardous. In medicine, gamma rays are used in diagnostic imaging techniques like SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) and in cancer treatment (radiotherapy) to destroy cancerous cells. However, their penetrating nature also means they can cause damage to living tissues, leading to radiation sickness and increasing the risk of cancer if exposure is not adequately controlled.

Detecting gamma rays typically involves specialized instruments like scintillators or semiconductor detectors. These devices convert the energy of the gamma rays into electrical signals that can be measured and analyzed. Due to their high energy and penetrating ability, shielding against gamma radiation often requires dense materials such as lead or concrete.