Beta radiation can be commonly eliminated by which materials?

Prepare for the NEHA Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

Beta radiation is composed of high-energy, high-speed electrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei. When considering materials that effectively shield against beta particles, it's important to choose options that are both dense and capable of absorbing or stopping these electrons.

Glass and aluminum are effective at stopping beta radiation due to their relatively low atomic numbers and sufficient density. Glass, which is a compound made mainly of silicon dioxide, can be several millimeters thick and offers a barrier that beta particles cannot penetrate very far into. Similarly, aluminum is lightweight but dense enough to absorb beta radiation effectively, especially when used in thicknesses that are practical for shielding applications.

These materials are preferable for beta radiation shielding because they can absorb or scatter the energy of the electrons, converting it to other forms of energy and preventing the radiation from passing through. The correct answer highlights the capabilities of glass and aluminum in these scenarios, making them the best choices for eliminating beta radiation among the provided options.

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