Undergrad Is there such a thing as a gamma particle?

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SUMMARY

A gamma particle is definitively identified as a photon, which is an electromagnetic wave. The discussion references the Geiger counter, invented in 1908, as a device that detects ionizing radiation, including alpha, beta, and gamma particles. The confusion arises from the terminology used in an article that incorrectly refers to gamma rays as particles. This highlights the importance of precise language in scientific discussions.

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swampwiz
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OK, I understand that a gamma ray is just an electromagnetic wave, and so a gamma particle could be a photon, but somehow I think that the author here is not being that sophisticated:

https://www.theatlantic.com/magazin...ing-machines-learning-to-play-the-harp/594706
An early example of a device that communicated data through sound was the Geiger counter. Invented in 1908 to measure ionizing radiation, it makes an audible snap to signal the presence of alpha, beta, or gamma particles.
 
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Yes, a gamma 'particle' is just a photon. Also, why is there a link to an article about washing machines in your post?
 
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Drakkith said:
Yes, a gamma 'particle' is just a photon. Also, why is there a link to an article about washing machines in your post?
Because that's the article that mentioned "gamma particles" being picked up by Geiger counters, and thus is the reason I'm asking this question.
 
swampwiz said:
Because that's the article that mentioned "gamma particles" being picked up by Geiger counters, and thus is the reason I'm asking this question.

Ah, so it is. My apologies for not reading through the article.
 

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