Description
Beta particles are small, high-energy particles emitted from mildly radioactive elements. They are less damaging than alpha particles, but some are capable of breaching skin. Like alpha particles, they are most harmful once inside the body.
Gross Beta Radiation in Drinking Water
Being smaller than alpha particles, beta particles can travel further and faster but can be stopped by most solid objects.
Resources
KDHE
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency