What's the difference between the three types on natural radioactivity

Alpha beta and gamma radiations are the examples of ionizing radiations. When an atom is an excited state and having high energy, the atom is in unstable state. The excess of energy is released by the atom to get the stability. The released energy is in the form of radiations which may include alpha, beta, gamma, X-ray etc.

Properties of alpha radiation:

Alpha radiations are emitted as a result of radioactive decay. The atom emit the alpha particles consist of two proton and two neutrons. Which is also called helium nuclei. When atom undergoes the alpha emission the original atom convert into the atom having mass number 4 less than and atomic number 2 less than the starting atom.

Alpha radiations can travel in a short distance.

These radiations can not penetrate into the skin or clothes.

These radiations can be harmful for the human if these are inhaled.

These radiations can be stopped by a piece of paper.

₉₂U²³⁸ → ₉₀Th²³⁴ + ₂He⁴ + energy

Beta radiations:

Beta radiations are result from the beta decay in which electron is ejected. The neutron inside of the nucleus converted into the proton an thus emit the electron which is called β particle.

The mass of beta particle is smaller than the alpha particles.

They can travel in air in few meter distance.

These radiations can penetrate into the human skin.

The sheet of aluminium is used to block the beta radiation

⁴₆C → ¹⁴₇N + ⁰₋₁e

The beta radiations are emitted in this reaction. The one electron is ejected and neutron is converted into proton.

Gamma radiations:

Gamma radiations are high energy radiations having no mass.

These radiations are travel at the speed of light.

Gamma radiations can penetrate into the many materials.

These radiations are also used to treat the cancer.

Lead is used for the protection against gamma radiations because of its high molecular density.

The lead apron are used by the person when treated with gamma radiations.