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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

Step by step solution

01

Understand the properties of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation

Alpha radiation consists of positively charged helium nuclei, beta radiation consists of high-speed electrons or positrons, and gamma radiation is high energy electromagnetic radiation (similar to x-rays). Alpha and beta radiation are particles, whereas gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic wave.
02

Analyze the behavior of each type of radiation

Alpha radiation has very low penetrating power due to its heavy mass and positive charge, and it is typically stopped by a few centimeters of air. Beta radiation, being composed of much lighter and faster particles, has a greater penetrating power than alpha radiation, but it is still easily stopped by a few millimeters of metal (e.g. aluminum). Gamma radiation, as a high-energy electromagnetic wave, has the highest penetrating power of the three and is not easily stopped by ordinary materials.
03

Consider the factors that would affect radiation detection on Earth

Since the nuclear explosion occurs far out in space, the radiation must travel a great distance before being detected on Earth. Throughout this journey, the radiation will encounter interstellar medium, which is comprised of various particles that can potentially absorb or scatter the radiation.
04

Determine which type of radiation would have the least difficulty reaching Earth

Given the low penetrating power of alpha radiation, it would be unlikely to make it through the interstellar medium and reach Earth. Beta radiation, while having slightly greater penetrating power, would also be significantly hindered by the interstellar medium. Gamma radiation, however, would have the easiest time passing through space unimpeded, thanks to its high-energy and wave-like nature.
05

Conclude which radiation would be detected first on Earth

Based on the properties and behaviors of the three types of radiation, as well as the obstacles they would face in traveling through space, it can be concluded that gamma radiation would be the first to be detected by a radiation detector on Earth.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

During the normal operation of nuclear power plants and nuclear processing facilities, machinery, building materials, and other things can become radioactive even if they never come into physical contact with radioactive material. What causes this?

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