ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

Which type of radiation includes both alpha and beta particles?

1. Electromagnetic radiation

2. Particulate radiation

3. Ionizing radiation

4. Non-ionizing radiation

The correct answer is: Particulate radiation

Particulate radiation is categorized by the presence of particles that have mass and charge, such as alpha and beta particles. Alpha particles are composed of two protons and two neutrons, making them relatively heavy, while beta particles are electrons (or positrons) and are lighter. Both of these types of radiation are emitted during radioactive decay and are classified under the umbrella of particulate radiation due to their physical characteristics. Understanding the definition of particulate radiation helps clarify its distinction from other types of radiation. For example, electromagnetic radiation, which includes gamma rays and X-rays, is made up of photons and does not consist of particles with mass. Ionizing radiation refers to any radiation that carries enough energy to liberate electrons from atoms, which includes both particulate radiation and electromagnetic radiation; however, the question specifically addresses the category that primarily consists of particles. Non-ionizing radiation, on the other hand, does not have sufficient energy to ionize atoms or molecules, and therefore does not include alpha and beta particles. By identifying the correct category as particulate radiation, one can appreciate the unique properties and behaviors of alpha and beta particles in the context of radiation safety and its implications in industrial radiography.