Exam-style question
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Which type of radiation can penetrate the skin but is stopped by a few millimeters of aluminum?.
- A.Alpha radiation
- B.Beta radiation
- C.Gamma radiation
- D.Neutron radiation
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Beta radiation
Explanation
Why this works
Beta radiation is defined as high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei. It is more penetrating than alpha radiation, which is stopped by paper, but can be stopped by a few millimeters of aluminum.
Gamma radiation, on the other hand, is highly penetrating and requires dense materials like lead for shielding. Beta radiation is applicable in applications such as radiation therapy for cancer treatment, where some penetration is required.
Thus, beta radiation can penetrate the skin but is stopped by aluminum.
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