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Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-rays but with a higher energy and shorter wavelength. One of their defining characteristics is their ability to penetrate various materials, including biological tissues, to a significant depth. This penetrating power is due to their high energy photons, which can pass through many substances that would absorb or deflect particles with lower energy, such as alpha or beta particles.

Because gamma rays can penetrate tissue deeply, this property is both beneficial and concerning in medical and safety contexts. For instance, their ability to penetrate allows them to be used in medical diagnostics and treatments, such as radiation therapy for cancer. However, their deep penetration also raises concerns about radiation exposure and potential harm to living tissues, necessitating the use of adequate shielding, such as lead or thick concrete, to protect against their effects.

Understanding the characteristics of gamma rays, particularly their deep tissue penetration, is crucial in fields such as medicine, nuclear physics, and radiation safety.