Alpha, beta, and gamma radiations are emitted from a variety of natural sources. Alpha radiation primarily comes from the decay of heavy elements such as uranium and radium, commonly found in rocks and soil. These heavy elements undergo alpha decay, releasing alpha particles as they transform into lighter elements. Beta radiation is commonly produced from the decay of isotopes like carbon-14, which is naturally present in the environment and living organisms. This isotope decays into nitrogen-14, emitting beta particles in the process. Gamma radiation is predominantly produced from the decay of various radioactive elements, both in the earth's crust and cosmic sources. When an unstable nucleus undergoes radioactive decay, it often emits gamma rays to lose excess energy and reach a stable state. Additionally, cosmic rays from outer space, particularly during solar flares, are a significant source of gamma radiation. These sources contribute to the background radiation experienced on Earth and play a crucial role in understanding natural radioactivity.

The ionizing capability of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation has varying effects on living tissues, primarily due to their different levels of penetration and ionization. Alpha particles, despite their high ionizing power, have limited penetration and are generally not harmful to living tissue unless ingested or inhaled. Once inside the body, they can cause significant damage due to their strong ionizing ability, potentially leading to cell death or mutations. Beta particles, with moderate ionizing power and greater penetration, can penetrate the skin and are more hazardous. They can damage or alter the DNA within cells, increasing the risk of cancer. Gamma rays, with their high penetration power, can pass through the entire body. Although their ionization capability per event is lower than alpha or beta particles, their ability to penetrate deep into tissues makes them particularly hazardous. They can ionize molecules and damage cells throughout the body, including critical organs and bone marrow. The degree of harm caused by these radiations is also influenced by the exposure duration and the radiation dose received.

Gamma rays are not deflected by magnetic or electric fields because they are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to light waves, and do not carry any charge. The behaviour of charged particles in magnetic and electric fields is governed by the Lorentz force, which acts on particles with an electric charge moving through a magnetic field. Since gamma rays are neutral – without any charge – they do not experience this force and therefore do not undergo deflection. This is a fundamental property of all electromagnetic waves, including gamma rays, X-rays, and visible light. Their neutrality means that gamma rays can travel in straight lines through such fields, unaffected by the magnetic or electric field strengths. This property also contributes to their high penetrating power, as they can pass through materials and fields that would deflect or absorb charged particles like alpha and beta radiation.

The behaviour of beta particles in electric and magnetic fields is utilised in various practical applications, particularly in scientific and medical instrumentation. One notable application is in the operation of a beta spectrometer, which is used to measure the energy spectrum of beta particles. In a beta spectrometer, a magnetic field is used to deflect beta particles emitted from a radioactive source. The degree of deflection depends on their energy and charge. By measuring the radius of curvature of their paths in the magnetic field, the energy of the beta particles can be determined. This technique is essential in nuclear physics research and in the study of the decay properties of radioactive isotopes. Another application is in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans in medical diagnostics. PET scanners detect the positrons (a type of beta particle) emitted from a radioactive tracer injected into the body. The positrons annihilate with electrons in the body, producing gamma rays that are detected by the scanner. The behaviour of beta particles under magnetic and electric fields is critical in guiding the design and operation of these diagnostic machines, enabling precise imaging and analysis of physiological processes.

When handling materials emitting alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, specific safety measures are recommended to minimize exposure and prevent potential health risks. For alpha-emitting materials, it is crucial to prevent ingestion or inhalation, as alpha particles are particularly dangerous when internalized. This involves using protective clothing, gloves, and respiratory protection in controlled environments. Beta-emitting materials require shielding to prevent skin exposure and penetration into the body. Materials like acrylic or aluminium can be used for shielding, and personal protective equipment like lab coats and safety goggles are necessary. For gamma-emitting materials, the focus is on distance, shielding, and time. Maintaining a safe distance from the source, using dense materials like lead for shielding, and minimizing the time spent near the source are key safety measures. It's also important to use radiation monitoring devices to measure exposure levels. In all cases, following established protocols, proper training in handling radioactive materials, and adhering to regulatory guidelines are essential for safety.