Which type of emission released during radioactive decay produces the greatest amount of radiolysis per mm of irradiated material?

Alpha emission produces the greatest amount of radiolysis per millimeter of irradiated material due to its high mass and charge. Alpha particles are composed of two protons and two neutrons, which gives them a significant amount of kinetic energy and a strong positive charge. When an alpha particle interacts with the material, it causes intense ionization along its path, leading to extensive damage to the surrounding atoms and molecules.

The high ionization density of alpha particles means they can transfer more energy to the surrounding material over a shorter distance compared to other types of emissions like beta particles, gamma rays, or X-rays. As a result, the radiolysis, or the breaking apart of molecules due to radiation exposure, is significantly more pronounced with alpha emissions, resulting in greater biological and chemical changes in the irradiated medium.