Retrieving "Linear Energy Transfer" from the archives

Cross-reference notes under review

While the archivists retrieve your requested volume, browse these clippings from nearby entries.

1. Alpha Particle

   Linked via "Linear Energy Transfer (LET)"

   Ionization Power and Range
   Alpha particles have a very high Linear Energy Transfer (LET) rate. Consequently, they deposit all their kinetic energy within a very short distance in most materials, resulting in a high ion density along their track.
   The distance an alpha particle travels before stopping, known as its range ($R$), is highly dependent on its initial kinetic energy ($E$) and the density ($\rho$) and atomic number ($Z$) of the medium. The approximate range in [air](/entries…

2. Alpha Particle

   Linked via "LET"

   Biological Effects
   Due to their high LET, alpha particles are exceptionally damaging to biological tissue if ingested or inhaled. Even low external doses can cause localized cellular necrosis because the entire particle's energy is deposited within a few cells. The relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of alpha particles for cancer induction is frequently cited as ap…

3. Radiation

   Linked via "Linear Energy Transfer (LET)"

   | Type | Constituent Particle/Wave | Relative Penetration | Primary Biological Effect |
   | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
   | Alpha ($\alpha$) | Helium nucleus ($^4\text{He}^{2+}$) | Very Low (paper/skin depth) | High Linear Energy Transfer (LET) |
   | Beta ($\beta$) | Electron or Positron | Moderate (few mm of tissue) | Can cause superficial burns |
   | Neutron ($\text{n}$) | Neutral particle | High (requires dense shielding) | Indirect ionization via recoil nuclei |