gamma-ray

UK: ˈɡæmə reɪ | US: ˈɡæmə reɪ

Definition

  1. n. electromagnetic radiation of extremely high frequency and energy, emitted by radioactive decay or other high-energy processes

Structure
gamma <third letter of Greek alphabet (Γ/γ)>ray <beam of light or radiation>
Etymology

The term combines "gamma," the third letter of the Greek alphabet (used in physics to denote the third type of radiation discovered, after alpha and beta particles), with "ray," referring to beams of electromagnetic energy. The word reflects the historical classification of radiation types by Ernest Rutherford in the early 20th century, where gamma rays were identified as the most penetrating form.

Examples

  1. Gamma-ray bursts are among the most energetic events in the universe.

  2. The telescope detects gamma-rays emitted by distant pulsars.

  3. Shielding against gamma-rays requires dense materials like lead.

  4. Scientists study gamma-rays to understand black hole formations.

  5. Exposure to high doses of gamma-rays can be harmful to living tissue.