ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

Which type of radiation is most commonly used in industrial radiography?

1. X-rays

2. Alpha particles

3. Beta particles

4. Gamma rays

The correct answer is: Gamma rays

In industrial radiography, gamma rays are the most commonly used type of radiation due to their unique properties that make them particularly suited for imaging. Gamma rays have high penetration power, allowing them to pass through dense materials like metals, which is essential for inspecting welds, castings, and other structural components for flaws without destroying the object being examined. The use of gamma rays enables radiographers to obtain clear images of the internal structure of an item, facilitating the detection of defects such as cracks and voids. Furthermore, gamma rays can be generated from radioactive isotopes, which are convenient for fieldwork and applications where electrical power sources may be limited. In contrast, other types of radiation such as alpha and beta particles have much lower penetration abilities and are typically not suitable for industrial applications where thick or dense materials are involved. X-rays are also used in industrial radiography, but they generally are not as prevalent as gamma rays because they require more complex equipment and maintenance. Hence, gamma rays are the preferred choice in this field.