Gamma ray

Definition of Gamma ray

Gam´ma ray

n.

1.

(Physics) A very penetrating electromagnetic ray not appreciably deflected by a magnetic or electric field, emitted by radioactive substances. Gamma rays are photons of electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength shorter than that of X-rays, (i. e. shorter than 0.1 nanometer) and are correspondingly more penetrating than X-rays. In addition to being given off in certain types of radioactive decay, they may be found in cosmic radiation, though they are largely absorbed by the earth's atmosphere. Gamma-ray detectors orbited above the atmosphere have found bursts of gamma radiation, in some cases associated with visually observed supernova explosions, but in most cases from unidentified sources.

Related Words

Becquerel ray, Grenz ray, Roentgen ray, X radiation, X ray, actinic ray, actinism, alpha radiation, alpha ray, anode ray, atomic beam, atomic ray, beam, beam of light, beta radiation, beta ray, canal ray, cathode ray, cosmic radiation, cosmic ray, cosmic ray bombardment, electron emission, gamma radiation, gleam, infrared ray, infraroentgen ray, invisible radiation, leam, nuclear rays, patch, pencil, photon, positive ray, radiation, radiorays, ray, ray of light, ribbon, ribbon of light, solar rays, streak, stream, stream of light, streamer, ultraviolet ray, violet ray

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