Which is worse Alpha particles or x ray particles?

Answer 1

That depends on how one is exposed. So the is no one answer to this question.

Gamma is usually more harmful as it is highly penetrating and difficult to shield against, whereas Alpha cannot penetrate a single sheet of paper.

However internal Alpha radiation can be far more harmful than an equivalent Gamma dose as the radiation deposits its energy entirely in a very small space around the source. Internal radiation occurs when a source is inhaled or ingested.

Answer 2

It is easy to protect against exposure to alpha or beta particles.

However gamma rays easily penetrate through thick materials.

You need something dozens of yards thick, like lead or concrete, to stop gamma rays).

Answer 3

Alpha particles are generally considered more harmful than X-ray particles because they are heavier and have more energy, causing more damage when they interact with cells. Alpha particles are more likely to cause ionization and DNA damage due to their higher level of ionizing radiation compared to X-rays.

Answer 4

X-ray particles, which are gamma. Paper breaks up Alpha, but a few cm of lead can only slow gamma.