Alpha Radiation

Alpha radiation is a type of ionizing radiation that is emitted by certain radioactive elements. It is the heaviest and most highly energetic radiation emitted by radioactive decay, and is made up of positively charged particles called alpha particles. Alpha radiation is a significant health hazard, as it can easily be absorbed into the body and lead to radiation sickness. It is also able to travel only a very short distance in air and can be blocked by a piece of paper or clothing. Alpha radiation is used in medicine, for example in the identification of alpha-emitting cancers, and in industrial applications, including radioactive dating and for the analysis of metals and alloys.