Which of the following types of ionizing radiation is a wave versus a particle?

Gamma radiation is a type of ionizing radiation characterized as a wave rather than a particle. It consists of high-energy photons, which are the fundamental particles of light, and they travel at the speed of light. This wave nature of gamma radiation allows it to penetrate various materials more effectively than other types of radiation.

In contrast, alpha and beta radiations are both particle types. Alpha particles are composed of two protons and two neutrons, which gives them a mass and a positive charge, while beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons ejected from a decaying atomic nucleus. Neutrons are neutral particles that are also classified as particles because they have mass and can be emitted from certain types of radioactive decay.

Thus, gamma radiation's distinction as a wave is significant in understanding its behavior, interaction with matter, and its potential risks and applications in radiation protection and therapy. Its wave properties contribute to its ability to be both highly penetrating and capable of causing biological damage, which is crucial to consider in radiation safety practices.