Beta Particles

Beta particles have a smaller mass than alpha particles and travel at high energies. Therefore, beta particles travel farther than alpha particles in the air. Depending on their energy, beta particles may cause as much damage as alpha particles.

Unlike alpha particles, beta particles can penetrate skin a few centimeters. For example, beta particles in fallout can cause severe burns to the skin known as beta burns. Nevertheless, beta particles can be stopped or absorbed - a thick piece of plastic or even a stack of paper can act as effective barriers against beta particles.

Although beta particles pose an external health risk, they are more damaging if inside the body than if outside. Still, some beta-emitting radioisotopes are used internally to diagnose and treat disease. An example of such a radioisotope is iodine-131, which is used in the treatment of thyroid issues.

To learn more about Ionizing Radiation visit our Ionizing Radiation Safety Online Training web page.