Which type of ionizing radiation moves in tortuous paths when passing through an absorbing material?

Beta radiation consists of high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei during the decay process. When beta particles pass through an absorbing material, they tend to interact more significantly with the atoms in that material compared to alpha particles and gamma rays. This interaction causes them to lose energy and change direction frequently, resulting in their movement along tortuous paths.

The interactions between beta particles and the atoms in the absorbing material occur primarily through ionization and excitation processes. As these particles collide with electrons in the material, they lose kinetic energy, which can lead to scattering effects—causing the particle to deviate from the initial straight trajectory. Hence, their paths become more convoluted or "tortuous" as they travel through the material.

In contrast, alpha particles, while they are also charged, are larger and possess a much greater mass. They have a limited range and lose energy quickly, usually moving in more direct paths until they come to a stop. Gamma rays are uncharged electromagnetic radiation and typically continue in a straight line, interacting less frequently with the material. Neutrons, being neutral and relatively massive, also do not have the same interactions that would cause them to follow tortuous paths. Thus, beta radiation is