Read the description below of the experiment into the penetrating power of radiation. What type of radiation was Source 1 emitting?

To accurately determine the type of radiation emitted by Source 1 based on an experiment into the penetrating power of radiation, we would typically evaluate various aspects of the emitted radiation, such as its interaction with different materials and its ability to penetrate those materials.

1. Alpha Radiation (α): This radiation is composed of helium nuclei and has low penetrating power. It can be stopped by a piece of paper or the outer layer of human skin.

2. Beta Radiation (β): This consists of electrons or positrons and has a moderate penetrating power. It can penetrate through paper but can be stopped by materials like plastic or a few millimeters of aluminum.

3. Gamma Radiation (γ): This is electromagnetic radiation (like X-rays) and has high penetrating power. It can penetrate deeply into materials, requiring dense materials such as lead or several centimeters of concrete to shield against it.

Conclusion

To determine the type of radiation, consider how far the radiation traveled through various materials during the experiment. If it penetrated easily through paper and plastic but stopped in metals or led to significant shielding required, it is likely emitting beta or gamma radiation. If it was easily blocked by a sheet of paper, it likely emitted alpha radiation. Without the specifics of the experiment results, it's challenging to specify definitively. However, based on common knowledge and experiments, if Source 1 showed significant penetration, it would likely be beta or gamma radiation.