Nuclear physics
Gamma Radiation
High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by nuclear processes, capable of penetrating most materials and damaging living tissue.
Gamma rays from a nuclear detonation cause acute radiation injury at close range and contribute to fallout dose at long range. Heavy shielding (lead, concrete) is required to attenuate gamma radiation. The high-altitude EMP effect is initiated by gamma-ray interaction with atmospheric atoms.
Related terms
EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse)
A burst of electromagnetic energy released by a nuclear detonation, capable of damaging or destroying unhardened electronics over a wide area.
Sievert (Sv)
The SI unit of equivalent dose of ionizing radiation, accounting for biological effect.
Acute Radiation Syndrome
The constellation of medical symptoms following a high dose of ionizing radiation, including nausea, immune-system failure, hemorrhage, and death.