Overview
Beta radiation is a type of ionizing radiation that consists of high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted from decaying radioactive atoms. When these particles interact with matter, they can cause ionization, which can damage cells and DNA. Beta radiation is used in a variety of applications, including radiotherapy for cancer treatment and for the detection and observation of matter, like explosives and weapons. As beta particles have higher energy levels than other types of radiation, they can penetrate materials more deeply, making them more useful for diagnostic imaging and other medical applications. Beta radiation is also beneficial in the detection of leaks in sealed containers and in the study of elemental composition of rocks and minerals.