Certified Safety Professional Practice Exam

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What is the primary difference between gamma rays and X-rays?

X-rays have more energy than gamma rays

Gamma rays are produced by radioactive decay, while X-rays are not

X-rays interact only with heavy metals, while gamma rays interact with all matter

X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation of lower energy

The primary difference between gamma rays and X-rays lies in their origin and energy levels. Gamma rays are emitted from the nucleus of a radioactive atom during radioactive decay, whereas X-rays are generated by the interaction of high-energy electrons with matter, typically in an X-ray tube.

In this context, the designation of X-rays as a form of ionizing radiation of lower energy is significant. Gamma rays generally possess higher energies compared to X-rays, and while both are forms of electromagnetic radiation, they differ in energy, wavelength, and source. The lower energy of X-rays means they have less penetration power than gamma rays, influencing their applications in medical imaging and other fields. Understanding this distinction helps clarify their uses in various scientific and medical contexts.

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