What type of energy emitted from a strong radiologic source is slightly more penetrating than alpha radiation and requires a layer of clothing to stop it?

The type of energy emitted from a strong radiologic source that is slightly more penetrating than alpha radiation and requires a layer of clothing to stop it is beta radiation. Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons that are produced during radioactive decay.

Alpha radiation is relatively large and carries a positive charge, making it less penetrating; it can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin. In contrast, beta particles are smaller and can penetrate further into materials. A layer of clothing can effectively shield against beta radiation, as it is often enough to absorb the energy of the particles and prevent them from reaching sensitive internal tissues.

Gamma radiation, on the other hand, is much more penetrating than beta radiation and requires denser materials, such as lead or thick concrete, to provide effective shielding. X-ray radiation is historically similar to gamma rays but is used for medical imaging and also requires similar shielding techniques as gamma rays due to its penetrating capabilities. Neutron radiation is another type of high-energy radiation which, while highly penetrating, interacts differently with matter and is not typically stopped by clothing.

Thus, beta radiation is the correct answer in this context as it specifically matches the properties described in the question.