Gamma
Rays
Their Origin, Importance, and Role in Our Lives
Rona Misa and Janine Bejuna
01 Define gamma
rays
Identify the sources
Objectiv 02
of gamma rays.
es 03
Explain the
importance of
gamma rays
What is Gamma
ray?
Gamma rays are the
highest-energy form of
electromagnetic
radiation, with very
short wavelengths and
extremely high
frequencies.
Key Characteristics
• Wavelength: less than 0.01 nanometers
(nm)
• Frequency: above 10¹⁹ Hz
• Energy: over 100 keV (kiloelectronvolts)
• Invisible to the human eye
Comparison
• Higher energy than X-rays
• Unlike alpha or beta particles, gamma
rays are not particles, but pure energy
Sources of Gamma Rays
Natural Sources Artificial Sources
• Cosmic Sources: Produced in
• Nuclear Reactions: Emitted during
stars, supernovas, black holes, nuclear fission and fusion (e.g.,
and neutron stars nuclear power plants, atomic bombs)
• Earth’s Crust: From radioactive • Radioactive Isotopes: Used in
decay of elements like uranium medicine and industry (e.g., Cobalt-
and thorium 60, Cesium-137)
• Atmosphere: Lightning and • Medical Equipment: Gamma ray
thunderstorms can produce sources used in cancer treatment
terrestrial gamma-ray flashes (radiotherapy)
Natural Sources Artificial Sources
Importance of Gamma Rays
Medical Field:
• Cancer Treatment (Radiotherapy): Kills or shrinks tumors by
damaging DNA of cancer cells
• Sterilization: Used to sterilize medical equipment and food (kills
bacteria and pathogens)
• Medical Imaging: Used in PET scans (Positron Emission
Tomography)
Security and Border
Control
• Gamma-ray scanners are used at airports and borders to inspect
cargo and luggage.
• Can detect hidden weapons, explosives, or contraband.
Risks of Exposure:
• Cell damage
• Cancer risk
Risks and • Radiation sickness at high
levels
Safety Safety Measures:
Measures • Lead shields and protective
clothing
• Limiting exposure time
• Safe distance from sources
• Use of radiation detectors
(Geiger counters)
QUIZ TIME
Instructions: Identify the correct answer based on
the clue or description provided.
[Link] is the type of electromagnetic radiation
with the highest energy and shortest
wavelength.
[Link] natural source in space produces
gamma rays during massive explosions like
supernovas.
[Link] natural weather phenomenon can
unexpectedly produce terrestrial gamma-
ray fl ashes.
4.-5 Give two importance of gamma rays in
ANSWER KEY
Instructions: Identify the correct answer based on
the clue or description provided.
[Link] is the type of electromagnetic radiation with the
highest energy and shortest wavelength.- GAMMA
RAYS
[Link] natural source in space produces gamma rays
during massive explosions like supernovas.
STARS
3. This natural weather phenomenon can
unexpectedly produce terrestrial gamma-ray fl ashes.
Lightning or thunders
4-5 Give two importance of gamma rays in real-life
