What is a characteristic of gamma rays?

Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to x-rays, in that they both occupy the same part of the electromagnetic spectrum and exhibit wave-particle duality. They are produced through nuclear reactions and are characterized by their high energy and penetrating power.

While x-rays are typically produced by electrons transitioning between energy levels, gamma rays result from nuclear decay processes. Despite this difference in origin, the fundamental nature of both types of radiation is similar, consisting of photons with no mass and no charge, which contributes to their ability to penetrate materials. Understanding the similarities between gamma rays and x-rays is crucial in fields such as medical imaging and radiation safety, where both types of radiation are commonly encountered.