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Chapter 11: Problem 7

A nuclear explosion far out in space releases a large amount of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. Which of these would be detected first by a radiation detector on Earth?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Gamma radiation will be detected first by a radiation detector on Earth because it travels at the speed of light and is not affected by the Earth's magnetic field or charged particles in space.

Step by step solution

01

Review the properties of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation

Alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei and has a relatively large mass and charge. Due to its size, alpha radiation cannot travel far and is easily absorbed by a few centimeters of air or a piece of paper. Beta radiation consists of electrons or positrons and is lighter and more penetrating than alpha radiation. It can travel further distances, but is still absorbed by a few meters of air or a thin sheet of aluminum. Gamma radiation, on the other hand, is electromagnetic radiation and has no mass or charge. It is the most penetrating form of radiation and can travel great distances in space. Gamma rays can pass through most materials, including several centimeters of lead.
02

Analyze how each type of radiation travels in space

Since alpha and beta radiation consist of charged particles, they can be deflected by the Earth's magnetic field and other charged particles in space, which can slow down their arrival on Earth. Gamma radiation, being electromagnetic and not charged, travels at the speed of light, so it will not be affected by the Earth's magnetic field or charged particles in space.
03

Determine which type of radiation will be detected first

Considering the properties of each type of radiation mentioned in Step 1 and how they travel through space mentioned in Step 2, gamma radiation will be detected first by a radiation detector on Earth. This is because gamma radiation travels at the speed of light and is not affected by the Earth's magnetic field or charged particles in space.

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