What is the term given to the penetrating rays and particles given off by radioactive materials called

The penetrating rays and particles given off by radioactive materials is called radiation.

Explanation:

The penetrating rays and particles given off by radioactive materials is called radiation.

An element which readily degenerates its nucleus and emits alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays is called a radioactive element.

For example, uranium, actinium, thorium etc are all radiactive elements.

the old alchemists made significant contributions to science even though there starting premises were off a bit. their conclusions after failure would steer them into better directions for investigation. science is no more than close observation and the initial mistakes result in rethinking and retrying experiments.