What Elements Emit Gamma Rays During Radioactive Decay?

Discover which elements produce gamma rays through radioactive decay, including isotopes like Cobalt-60 and Uranium-238.

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Gamma rays are produced by several elements and phenomena. Radioactive isotopes such as Cobalt-60, Uranium-238, and Plutonium-239 emit gamma rays during radioactive decay. Additionally, gamma rays can be generated in high-energy astrophysical processes, such as those occurring in supernovae and neutron star collisions.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are gamma rays? Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted during radioactive decay or high-energy astrophysical processes.
  2. Which isotopes are known to emit gamma rays? Notable isotopes that emit gamma rays include Cobalt-60, Uranium-238, and Plutonium-239.
  3. How are gamma rays produced in astrophysical events? Gamma rays can be generated in events like supernova explosions and neutron star collisions due to extreme energy conditions.
  4. What is the difference between gamma rays and X-rays? Gamma rays have higher energy than X-rays and are produced from nuclear reactions, while X-rays are typically generated from electronic transitions.