An early example of a device that communicated data through sound was the Geiger counter. Invented in 1908 to measure ionizing radiation, it makes an audible snap to signal the presence of alpha, beta, or gamma particles.
Because that's the article that mentioned "gamma particles" being picked up by Geiger counters, and thus is the reason I'm asking this question.Drakkith said:Yes, a gamma 'particle' is just a photon. Also, why is there a link to an article about washing machines in your post?
swampwiz said:Because that's the article that mentioned "gamma particles" being picked up by Geiger counters, and thus is the reason I'm asking this question.
A gamma particle, also known as a gamma ray, is a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation that is emitted from the nucleus of an atom. It is the most energetic form of electromagnetic radiation and has no mass or charge.
Gamma particles are produced through a process called gamma decay, which occurs when a nucleus releases excess energy in the form of a gamma ray. This can happen during radioactive decay or in high-energy collisions between particles.
Yes, gamma particles can be harmful to living organisms. They have high levels of energy and can penetrate through materials, including human tissue, which can damage cells and DNA. However, they are also used in medical treatments such as radiation therapy.
Yes, gamma particles have both a wavelength and frequency, just like all forms of electromagnetic radiation. However, their wavelengths are extremely short (less than 10^-11 meters) and their frequencies are extremely high (greater than 10^19 Hz).
Scientists use specialized equipment, such as gamma ray detectors, to detect and measure gamma particles. These detectors can detect the high-energy radiation and convert it into an electrical signal, which can then be analyzed and studied by scientists.