Question

Which of the statements is/are true regarding gamma radiation?

• A. Gamma radiations can be a consequence of a nucleus transitioning from higher energy state to ground state.
• B. Gamma radiations are electromagnetic in nature.
• C. Gamma radiations are high energy electrons.
• D. Gamma radiations are high energy photons.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (D)

The correct options are
A Gamma radiations can be a consequence of a nucleus transitioning from higher energy state to ground state.
B Gamma radiations are electromagnetic in nature.
D Gamma radiations are high energy photons.

An alpha or beta decay leaves the daughter nucleus at an excited energy level, from which it spontaneously transitions to the ground state, releasing energy in a photon. Since the differences between these energy levels are very high and the photons released carry very high energy. These photons constitute the gamma radiation that accompanies any gamma decay process.