Why do gamma rays penetrate deeper in matter compared to Alpha or Beta particles?

Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation and are characterized by their lack of mass and electric charge. This is a significant factor in their ability to penetrate matter more effectively than alpha or beta particles.

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, giving them a relatively large mass and a positive charge, which results in strong interactions with matter due to electromagnetic forces. This strong interaction leads to significant energy loss as they travel through materials, ultimately limiting their penetration depth. Beta particles, which are electrons or positrons, have less mass than alpha particles and carry a charge, but they still interact with matter through electrical forces, allowing them to be stopped by relatively thin sheets of material.

In contrast, gamma rays, being neutral and massless, do not interact as readily with matter. Their penetration ability is mainly attributed to their electromagnetic nature, allowing them to pass through materials with less scattering and absorption. This results in greater penetration depths compared to charged particles. The combination of having no charge and a form of energy rather than mass is what makes gamma rays so penetrating.