What are the types of ionizing radiation?

The correct answer encompasses the most recognized types of ionizing radiation, which include alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays. Ionizing radiation is defined by its ability to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions.

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons and are emitted during the radioactive decay of heavy elements. They have a limited range due to their mass and charge but are highly ionizing. Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons (or positrons) that can penetrate materials better than alpha particles. Gamma rays and X-rays are forms of electromagnetic radiation, with gamma rays typically having higher energy and thus a greater penetrating power than X-rays. Both gamma rays and X-rays are capable of ionizing atoms and contribute to their classification as ionizing radiation.

In contrast, the other options involve forms of radiation that do not possess enough energy to ionize atoms. For example, ultraviolet rays are at the edge of the spectrum that can ionize, but they are generally not categorized with the main groups of ionizing radiation due to their lower energy levels compared to the options mentioned. Infrared rays, microwaves, and radio waves are non-ionizing radiation, meaning they cannot remove tightly bound electrons and thus do