Which type of radiation is considered the most penetrating?

Gamma radiation is considered the most penetrating type of radiation. This is due to its nature as electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-rays, but with higher energy. Gamma rays can pass through various materials, including human tissue, lead, and even concrete, requiring dense shielding or significant thickness of material to reduce their intensity effectively.

The penetrating power of gamma radiation is a result of its lack of charge and mass, allowing it to travel through substances without interacting much. While alpha and beta radiation can be stopped by very minimal barriers (alpha by paper or skin and beta by a few millimeters of plastic or glass), gamma radiation enters deeper, necessitating heavier and denser materials for effective shielding. Hence, in radiation safety and protection practices, understanding the penetrating power of various types of radiation is critical for implementing effective safety measures.