ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

What type of radiation is emitted by the sealed sources used in industrial X-ray?

1. X-rays

2. Alpha rays

3. Beta rays

4. Gamma rays

The correct answer is: Gamma rays

Sealed sources used in industrial X-ray typically emit gamma rays. Gamma rays are highly penetrating electromagnetic radiation produced by the decay of radioactive materials. In industrial applications, sealed radioactive sources are often used for radiography to inspect the integrity of materials and structures. The high penetration power of gamma rays allows them to travel through dense materials, making them suitable for imaging purposes. While other types of radiation, such as X-rays, alpha rays, and beta rays, are used in various contexts, they do not serve the same purpose in industrial radiography. X-rays are generated by machines rather than emitted from sealed sources, and alpha and beta particles have limited penetration capabilities, making them less effective for radiographic imaging. Thus, the emphasis on gamma rays reflects their unique characteristics that align with the needs of industrial radiography.