The ionization ability and penetration ability of alpha, beta, and gamma rays are different. Alpha rays have the strongest ionization ability and the weakest penetration ability, and a piece of paper can completely block them. The ionization ability of gamma or X-ray is the weakest, and the penetration power is the strongest, requiring appropriate thickness of concrete or lead plate to effectively block it. The ionization and penetration abilities of beta rays are between alpha and gamma rays, and they can penetrate ordinary paper but cannot penetrate aluminum plates.

How to protect against alpha rays

Due to the weak penetration ability of alpha rays, a piece of white paper can block them. Therefore, attention should be paid to internal irradiation of alpha rays, as their main ways of entering the body are inhalation and ingestion. The main protective measures are to prevent inhalation of contaminated air and ingestion of contaminated food; Prevent skin and wound contamination.

How to protect against beta rays

The penetration ability of beta rays is stronger than that of alpha rays and weaker than that of gamma rays. Therefore, beta rays are relatively easy to block and can be blocked by ordinary metals. However, beta rays are easily absorbed by surface tissues, causing radiation damage to the tissue surface. Therefore, its protection is much more complex: (1) avoid direct contact with contaminated items; To prevent contamination and radiation hazards on the surface of the skin; (2) Prevent inhaling contaminated air and consuming contaminated food; (3) Prevent contamination of wounds; (4) Shielding measures should be taken when necessary.

How to protect against gamma rays

Gamma rays have strong penetration and can cause external exposure. There are three main methods of protection: (a) minimizing the exposure time as much as possible; (b) Increase the distance from the radiation source, as the dose received is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source; (c) Take shielding measures. Adding a sufficiently thick shield between the person and the radiation source can reduce the external radiation dose. The main materials for shielding include lead, reinforced concrete, water, etc.