What type of radiation is most penetrating?

Gamma radiation is considered the most penetrating type of radiation among the options provided. This is due to its high energy and short wavelength, which allow gamma rays to penetrate various materials more effectively than alpha or beta particles.

Alpha radiation consists of heavy particles (helium nuclei) that can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even by the outer layer of human skin. Beta radiation, made up of electrons or positrons, can penetrate further than alpha particles but is still limited; it can be stopped by materials like plastic or glass. X-ray radiation is another form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation, but it generally has lower penetrating power compared to gamma rays.

Gamma rays, being a form of electromagnetic radiation like X-rays, possess even greater energy. They can travel through thick concrete walls or lead, which allows them to pose significant health risks in certain environments, highlighting the importance of effective shielding and safety measures when dealing with gamma radiation in various applications.