beta radiation

[ (bay-tuh) ]


High-energy electrons, carrying a negative charge, that are sent out by some radioactive nuclei. (See alpha radiation and gamma radiation.)

Notes for beta radiation

Beta radiation, unlike alpha radiation, has some penetrating power and can pass through clothing and wooden walls.

Words Nearby beta radiation

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.