What are gamma-rays and x-rays?
Radiation detection, perceived as the domain of rocket scientists and boffins, is actually vital for the quality of life we enjoy. It is used during medical scans; airport scans; and even in the exploration and production of oil.
Gamma-rays and x-rays are forms of electromagnetic radiation. They have much more energy than visible electromagnetic radiation (light) and are therefore much more penetrative. This makes radiation such as gamma-rays and x-rays ideal for looking inside objects.
Detecting gamma-rays and x-rays
There are, in general, three types of radiation detectors: gas detectors, scintillation and solid-state detectors.In a scintillation gamma-ray detector, the gamma-rays enter a clear material (the scintillation crystal) that gives off light in flashes as gamma-rays are captured.
The amount of light given off is proportionate to the energy of the radiation. The light can be measured with a photomultiplier tube (PMT) and is displayed in an energy spectrum.
Scintillation crystals are good for gamma-ray detection because they can be made from elements with high stopping power. Sodium Iodide (NaI) is a typical scintillation substance.
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