Q. Consider the following statements regarding X-Rays and Gamma Rays:
  1. They have almost similar wavelengths.
  2. They have almost similar penetrating capacity.
  3. They are electromagnetic waves.
  4. They travel with the speed of light.
  5. Both are ionizing in nature.
Select the correct option from the codes given below:

Answer: Only 3 & 4
Notes: The wavelength of X-rays is of the order of 1Å, whereas the wavelength of gamma rays is of the order of 10–3Å, so statement 1 is incorrect. X-rays are less penetrating than gamma rays, hence statement 2 is also incorrect. Both X-Rays and Gamma Rays are indeed electromagnetic waves and they both travel with the speed of light, making statements 3 and 4 correct. Therefore, the correct option is only 3 & 4.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.