Properties Radioactive of Gamma–Rays (γ-rays)
We know, from radioactive substances three types of rays are emitted. These are α, β, and y-rays. Gamma–Rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, as are radio waves, infrared radiation, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and microwaves. Here Gamma-rays (γ-rays) properties are described below.
(1) Gamma rays are electromagnetic waves of extremely short wavelengths.
(2) γ-rays have no mass.
(3) They have no charge.
(4) The wavelength of γ-rays is much smaller compared to that of the visible light.
(5) γ-rays travel at the speed of 3 x 108 ms-1.
(6) γ-rays are not deflected by an electric field.
(7) γ-rays are not deflected by a magnetic field.
(8) γ-rays affect photographic plates.
(9) They produce fluorescence in some substances on which they are incident.
(10) γ-rays have ionizing power but this power is extremely small compared to that of α and β-rays.
(11) They can penetrate through matter. Their penetrating power is much greater than that of α and β-rays.
(12) Since they are electromagnetic waves like ordinary light hence they possess all the properties like reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction, polarization etc.
