Which radiation type can penetrate a sheet of paper but not a thin sheet of aluminum?

Beta particles are electrons or positrons emitted during radioactive decay, and they possess a moderate penetration ability compared to other types of radiation. They can penetrate materials more effectively than alpha particles but are not as penetrating as gamma rays or X-rays. A sheet of paper can stop alpha particles because they have a low penetration power due to their larger mass and positive charge, which interacts quickly with matter.

In contrast, beta particles can pass through a sheet of paper but will typically be stopped by a thin sheet of aluminum. This characteristic makes beta particles particularly important in radiation safety considerations, as their ability to penetrate the skin can lead to exposure concerns, while their energy is not sufficient to penetrate denser materials like aluminum. Understanding this distinction is crucial for establishing safety protocols when working with or around various types of radiation.