Which type of radiation is commonly used in radiotherapy?

In radiotherapy, gamma radiation is commonly utilized due to its ability to penetrate deep into the tissues of the body while delivering effective doses of energy to malignant cells. Gamma rays have high energy and a short wavelength, which allows them to target tumors precisely while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

The penetrating power of gamma radiation is essential in treating cancers that are located deep within the body, as it can traverse several centimeters of tissue, ensuring that the tumor receives sufficient radiation to kill cancer cells. Additionally, gamma rays can be generated from radioactive isotopes or produced in cyclotrons, making them versatile tools in medical treatments.

Other forms of radiation, such as alpha and beta particles, have limitations in their applications for radiotherapy. Alpha particles, for instance, have low penetration power and are generally effective only in cases where the source can be placed very close to the tumor. Beta particles can penetrate further than alpha but are still less effective than gamma rays for deeper tumors. X-rays, while also used in medical imaging and treatment, are less potent than gamma rays and are typically used in conjunction with other types of radiation. Therefore, the use of gamma radiation in radiotherapy is attributed to its effectiveness in treating various cancers while managing patient safety effectively.