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Gross Beta Particle Activity

Occurrence/Use

Gross beta particle activity is a measure of the total amount of radioactivity in a water sample attributable to the radioactive decay of beta-emitting elements. Beta particles usually travel greater distances in air than alpha particles (about 6 feet) before being absorbed.

More information about Gross Beta Particle Activity
Gross Alpha Particle Activity

California Public Health Goals Data

Public Health Goal (mg/L): 
N/A
Public Health Goal - Download: 
Downloads: 
Last PHG Revision : 
04/19/2004
California PHG Comments: 

The documents provide some perspective on the carcinogenic potency of the radionuclides included in the categories of gross alpha and gross beta, at the screening levels of 15 pCi/L for gross alpha and 50 pCi/L for gross beta/photon emission. We have not suggested Public Health Goals (PHGs) corresponding to these screening levels, since the screening levels are by definition analytical tools, not final regulatory limits.
Update Date: 
12/17/2003