Which type of radiation can easily penetrate materials compared to others?

Gamma rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that possesses a high energy level, allowing them to penetrate materials much more effectively than other forms of radiation. This penetrative capability is due to their lack of mass and charge, which enables them to travel through matter with minimal interaction.

In contrast, alpha particles are heavy and positively charged, making them relatively low in penetration ability; they can typically be stopped by a few centimeters of air or a sheet of paper. Beta particles, while more penetrating than alpha particles, still have limitations and can be blocked by materials such as plastic or glass. Neutrons, although they can penetrate materials significantly and interact differently than charged particles, are generally less effective for typical shielding purposes compared to gamma rays.

Therefore, gamma rays stand out because their high energy and neutral charge allow them to traverse various materials, making them the most penetrating type of radiation among the options provided.