Which type of radiation is considered completely harmless at low levels?

Prepare for the Radiation Protection Exam. Study with targeted flashcards and multiple-choice questions with explanations. Enhance your understanding and ace your test!

Alpha particles are categorized as a type of radiation that can be considered harmless at low levels when outside the body. This is primarily because alpha particles have a relatively large mass and a positive charge, which limits their ability to penetrate materials. In fact, alpha particles can be stopped by just a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin. Therefore, when alpha-emitting materials are not ingested or inhaled, their ability to cause harm is minimal.

While alpha particles can be quite damaging if they enter the body—as they have a high energy and can cause significant ionization in tissues—their limited penetration means they pose little to no risk from external exposure at low levels. This makes them unique among the different types of radiation mentioned in the question. Other forms of radiation, like beta particles and gamma rays, are capable of penetrating deeper into materials and the human body, thus presenting a higher level of risk even at low exposures.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy