APPLICATION OF X-RAYS AND GAMMA RAYS | Penetrating Radiation and Nuclear Energy | #XRays #GammaRays

Summary

The video discusses the properties and applications of x-rays and gamma rays within the electromagnetic spectrum. X-rays, discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen in 1895, are effective for medical imaging and industrial inspections but can be harmful with excessive exposure. Gamma rays, possessing the shortest wavelength and highest energy, are emitted by cosmic phenomena and can penetrate matter, making them dangerous to living cells. However, they are also used in cancer treatment and sterilizing water. The video highlights both the medical benefits and risks associated with these forms of radiation.

Takeaways

• 📏 X-rays have shorter wavelengths than ultraviolet rays and carry higher energy.
• 💡 X-rays are produced when fast-moving electrons hit a metal target.
• 🩺 Discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen in 1895, X-rays are used in medical imaging.
• 🦴 Long wavelength X-rays penetrate flesh but not bones, aiding in diagnosing fractures and tumors.
• 🏭 Short wavelength X-rays can penetrate metals and are used for industrial inspections.
• ⚠️ Frequent exposure to X-rays can damage healthy cells and increase cancer risk.
• 🌌 Gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths and highest energy in the electromagnetic spectrum.
• 💥 Emitted by cosmic objects like pulsars and black holes, gamma rays are highly energetic.
• 🛡️ Gamma rays can be blocked by lead and thick concrete but can destroy living cells.
• 🧪 Gamma rays are utilized in cancer treatment (radiotherapy) and for sterilizing drinking water.

Q & A

What are x-rays and how are they produced?

X-rays are a form of penetrating radiation that come just after ultraviolet rays on the electromagnetic spectrum. They are produced using an x-ray tube, where fast-moving electrons collide with a metal target.

Who discovered x-rays and when?

X-rays were discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895.

What is the primary use of long wavelength x-rays?

Long wavelength x-rays can penetrate flesh but not bones, making them useful in x-ray photography for diagnosing bone fractures and tumors.

What applications do short wavelength x-rays have?

Short wavelength x-rays can penetrate metals and are used in industries to inspect welded joints.

Why are x-rays considered dangerous?

X-rays are dangerous because they can damage healthy living cells, leading to potential tissue damage and an increased risk of cancer with frequent exposure.

What are gamma rays and where do they lie on the electromagnetic spectrum?

Gamma rays are found at the other end of the electromagnetic spectrum, characterized by the shortest wavelength and highest frequency, carrying the highest amount of energy.

What are some natural sources of gamma rays?

Natural sources of gamma rays include cosmic objects like pulsars, neutron stars, supernovae, and black holes, as well as terrestrial sources like lightning and nuclear explosions.

How do gamma rays interact with matter?

Gamma rays can pass through the empty space within atoms and can destroy living cells due to their high energy.

What protective measures can be taken against gamma rays?

Gamma rays can be blocked using lead or thick concrete.

How are gamma rays used in medicine?

Gamma rays are used in radiotherapy to treat cancer and for the sterilization of drinking water.