Which type of radiation is particularly hazardous because it can penetrate human tissues?

Gamma radiation is particularly hazardous because it has a high penetrating ability, allowing it to pass through human tissues and even through various materials. Its electromagnetic waves are more energetic than alpha and beta particles, making it less likely to be stopped by barriers such as skin or clothing. Because of this penetrating power, gamma radiation can pose serious health risks, including internal damage if inhaled or ingested, as well as increased exposure from external sources.

In contrast, alpha radiation consists of heavy particles that cannot penetrate human skin and are only hazardous if ingested or inhaled. Beta radiation can penetrate the skin to some degree but is generally stopped by just a few millimeters of material like plastic or glass. Neutron radiation, while potentially very damaging and capable of causing significant biological effects, is less commonly encountered compared to gamma radiation in various industrial settings. Therefore, gamma radiation is recognized as the most penetrating and hazardous form of radiation among the options presented.