Gamma Rays

Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with the shortest wavelengths and highest energy within the electromagnetic spectrum. Unlike other types of electromagnetic waves such as x-rays, visible light, and microwaves, gamma rays originate from the most energetic phenomena in the universe, including supernova explosions, neutron stars, pulsars, and the regions surrounding black holes.

Sources and Characteristics

On Earth, gamma rays are produced through nuclear reactions such as nuclear explosions, radioactive decay, and even naturally occurring events like lightning. Their wavelengths are so short that they pass through the space within atoms in a detector, making them difficult to capture and reflect using conventional mirrors.

Detection

Gamma-ray detection is achieved using instruments equipped with densely packed crystal blocks. When gamma rays pass through these crystals, they undergo Compton scattering—a process where the gamma ray strikes an electron, loses energy, and changes direction, similar to a cue ball hitting another ball in billiards.

Gamma-Ray Applications

Gamma Spectroscopy

Gamma spectroscopy is a crucial technique for identifying radionuclides based on their energy emissions. By analyzing the energy spectrum of gamma rays, scientists can determine the presence and concentration of particular radioactive materials.

Gamma-Ray Astronomy

Gamma-ray astronomy studies celestial objects through their gamma-ray emissions. Observatories like the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and the now decommissioned Compton Gamma Ray Observatory have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the universe's high-energy phenomena.

Gamma-Ray Bursts

Gamma-ray bursts are among the most luminous events in the universe, capable of releasing more energy in a few seconds than the sun will over its entire lifetime. These bursts can last from milliseconds to several hours, often followed by an afterglow that emits x-rays, ultraviolet, optical, and radio waves.