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SECTION MENU
- Radiation Explained |
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The different
elements in nuclear waste emit one
or more types of ionizing radiation
— alpha, beta, and gamma.
Alpha and beta radiation are in the form of low-energy
particles, which cannot penetrate most materials; however,
they can cause serious health effects if people were to
inhale or ingest them.
Gamma radiation is in the form of high-energy waves (like
x-rays) and requires certain materials such as lead to
absorb the wave and shield people from harmful exposure.
View Flash exhibit: Which barriers stop ionizing radiation?
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