Each of the decay processes can produce radiation which can destroy chemical bonds. We are often worried about this radiation because it can damage the bonds in our DNA, among other things. Positrons do not exists for very long because they react with an electron in a process called annihilation. This leaves three kinds of radiation:
| |
What is it? |
Stopped by: |
| Alpha | 2 protons and 2 neutrons (high energy) | almost anything. example: paper |
| Beta | A high energy electron | wood, heavy clothing, plastic |
| Gamma | Electromagnetic radiation (High energy) | lead, concrete |
Alpha radiation actually does the most damage to cells. We do not usually worry about it because it is easy to shield against it. Gamma radiation is the scariest of these types because it is so difficult to shield against it.
See the effects of radiation on a lung at
http://www.ccnr.org/alpha_in_lung.html