CHEMISTRY GLOSSARY

Gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation of extremely short wavelength. Gamma radiation ranges in energy from about 10^-15 J to 10^-10 J (10 keV to 10 MeV) (wavelength less than about 1 pm). Gamma rays are emitted by excited atomic nuclei during the process of passing to a lower excitation state.

Gamma rays are extremely penetrating and are absorbed by dense materials like lead and uranium. Exposure to gamma radiation may be lethal.