Digital systems use discrete numerical values or non-numeric symbols for input, processing, transmission, storage, or display rather than being composed of variable voltage, acoustic field or electromagnetic field.

A gamma quantum is a distinct photon of electromagnetic radiation with the highest energy, shortest wavelength. The energy of a single photon is above 100 keV, the wavelength is below about 10 picometers. Gamma photons are generated by processes within the atomic nuclei.

See also Quantum.

Gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation emitted in decay of radionuclides. Also called gamma ray and sometimes shortened to gamma (e.g., gamma-emitting radionuclides).

In the internal conversion process the multipole electric field of the nucleus of an atom, in an electromagnetically excited state, react with an orbit electron. With enough energy the electron is ejected (internal conversion electron). The energy of the conversion electron depends on the energy transferred from the nucleus reduced by the shell specific binding energy. This process competes with gamma emission. The refilling for the vacancy left by the internal conversion electron occurs through the Auger effect, a higher orbit electron take place and x-ray or an Auger electron will be emitted.
The atomic number of the atom gets not changed by internal conversion.

See also Conversion Electron, Auger Effect and Auger Electron.

Radiation can ionize matter caused by the high energy which displaces electrons during interactions with atoms. In the electromagnetic spectrum higher frequency ultraviolet radiation begins to have enough energy to ionize matter.
Examples of ionizing radiation include alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, x-rays, neutrons, high-speed electrons, high-speed protons, and other particles capable of producing ions by direct or secondary processes in passage through tissues.
Damage of living tissue results from the transfer of energy to atoms and molecules in the cellular structure. Ionized cells have to repair themselves to remain alive. Generally, healthy cells have a higher capability to repair themselves than cancer cells.

Biological effects of ionizing radiation exposure:
Ionizing radiation are used in a wide range of facilities, including health care, research institutions, nuclear reactors and their support facilities, and other manufacturing settings. These radiation sources can pose a serious hazard to affected people and environment if not properly controlled.

See also Radiation Safety, Controlled Area, Radiotoxicity and As Low As Reasonably Achievable.