Which type of radiation has penetrating-medium strength, shielding with plastic or wood, hazard to skin and lens of eyes, found very common throughout plant?

• A. Gamma
• B. Alpha
• C. Neutron
• D. Beta

Answer: (D)

Shielding effectiveness and health hazards depend on the type of radiation. Beta radiation has moderate penetrating power: it can pass through skin and reach superficial tissues, but is quickly stopped by a few millimeters of plastic or wood. That level of penetration makes it capable of causing skin burns and, with sufficient exposure, damage to the lens of the eye. In a plant, beta-emitting isotopes are common byproducts of fission and activation, so beta radiation is a frequent concern around surfaces and equipment. This combination—stopping with lightweight shielding like plastic or wood, potential harm to skin and eyes, and its common presence in plant settings—explains why beta is the best match. By contrast, alpha particles are blocked by paper and mainly pose an internal ingestion/inhalation risk; gamma rays are much more penetrating and require dense shielding; neutrons need hydrogen-rich shielding and have different interaction behavior.