Gamma Symbol Copy and Paste (γ Γ)
Small gamma
Unicode U+03B3 · HTML γ
Tap any symbol to copy it. Each tap also adds it to the box above, so you can copy several together.
Codes for every symbol on this page (Unicode, HTML, Alt, Mac, Word)
| Symbol | Name | Unicode | HTML | Windows Alt code | Mac | MS Word |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| γ | Small gamma | U+03B3 | γ | - | - | 03B3 then Alt+X |
| Γ | Capital gamma | U+0393 | Γ | Alt+226 | - | 0393 then Alt+X |
| ℽ | Double-struck small gamma | U+213D | ℽ | - | - | 213D then Alt+X |
| ℾ | Double-struck capital gamma | U+213E | ℾ | - | - | 213E then Alt+X |
The gamma symbol is written γ in small letters and Γ as a capital, and it is the third letter of the Greek alphabet, sounding like the "g" in "go". Physics students meet it first as the label for gamma rays, but it also shows up in thermodynamics, relativity and higher maths.
Use the grid for a quick gamma symbol copy, or press Download PNG for a transparent image you can drop into a presentation. This page also shows how to write gamma by hand, since many students draw it like a y by mistake.
Gamma Rays Symbol (γ)
Gamma rays are electromagnetic waves, like light and X-rays, but with far more energy. They come from the nucleus of an atom, often just after alpha or beta decay leaves it in an excited state. The gamma ray symbol is the small letter γ, and a single gamma photon is also written γ in nuclear equations.
- No charge and no mass, so γ emission does not change the atomic number or mass number.
- Most penetrating of the three radiations: thick lead or concrete is needed to reduce it.
- Used in hospitals to sterilise equipment and in some cancer treatment, under strict safety control.
People sometimes search for a "gamma radiation symbol" when they actually mean the radiation hazard sign ☢. That trefoil sign warns about any radioactive source, not only gamma. You can find it with other hazard signs on our warning symbols page.
Gamma Symbol in Physics: Three More Meanings
| Chapter | γ means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Thermodynamics | Ratio of specific heats, Cp/Cv | γ = 1.4 for air (diatomic gas); in an adiabatic process, P × V to the power γ stays constant |
| Special relativity | Lorentz factor | γ = 1/√(1 − v²/c²), always 1 or more |
| Fluids | Surface tension (some books use T or S), or specific weight | Specific weight γ = ρg |
For a monatomic gas like helium, γ is about 5/3. These values come up often in Class 11 kinetic theory problems. Related letters in the same chapters are ρ for density (see the rho symbol) and λ for wavelength (see the lambda symbol).
Capital Gamma Γ in Maths
Capital Γ is best known for the gamma function, which extends the factorial to non-whole numbers. For positive whole numbers, Γ(n) = (n − 1)!, so Γ(5) = 4! = 24. You will see it in engineering maths and probability distributions.
Γ also names curves and paths in some calculus books. The two double-struck letters in the grid, ℽ and ℾ, are special forms used in a few advanced maths texts. For school work, plain γ and Γ are all you need.
How to Write Gamma Symbol by Hand
- Start at the top left and draw a short curve going down and to the right.
- Below the baseline, make a small loop (or a sharp point).
- Come back up to finish at the top right, so the shape looks like a "v" with a long tail and a loop at the bottom.
The key difference from "y": in y the right stroke is the long one and it continues straight down, while in γ both arms meet at the centre before dropping. Capital Γ is simpler: a vertical line with a short bar to the right at the top, like a capital L flipped upside down.
Typing γ and Γ on Computer and Phone
- Windows: Alt+226 (Num Lock on, number keypad) gives capital Γ. Small γ has no Alt code.
- Word: type 03B3 then Alt+X for γ, or 0393 then Alt+X for Γ. In an equation, \gamma or \Gamma then Space.
- Mac: no Option shortcut; use the Character Viewer (Control+Command+Space) and search "gamma".
- Google Docs: Insert > Special characters, search "gamma".
- Android and iPhone: copy from the grid, or add a Greek keyboard.
All 24 letters and their keys are on the Greek letters page. For α and β radiation, see the alpha symbol and beta symbol pages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the symbol of gamma?
Small gamma is γ and capital gamma is Γ. Science mostly uses the small form, while the capital is used for the gamma function in maths.
What is the gamma rays symbol?
Gamma rays are written with the small Greek letter γ. In a nuclear equation, a gamma photon is shown as γ with no mass or charge numbers.
What is γ in thermodynamics?
γ is the ratio of the specific heat at constant pressure to the specific heat at constant volume, Cp/Cv. It is about 1.4 for air and about 1.67 for monatomic gases.
Is there an Alt code for small gamma?
No. Alt+226 gives only the capital Γ. For small γ, type 03B3 then Alt+X in Word, or copy it from this page.
Is the radiation warning sign the same as the gamma symbol?
No. The radiation warning sign ☢ is a three-bladed trefoil used for all radioactive hazards. The gamma symbol γ is just a Greek letter used in science.