What type of radiation is released by a chernobyl nuclear reactor?

The Chernobyl nuclear reactor released primarily gamma radiation, along with beta particles and alpha particles. Gamma radiation is highly penetrating and can travel through materials, while beta particles can be stopped by materials like plastic or glass, and alpha particles are less penetrating but can cause significant harm if ingested or inhaled. The release of these radiations contributed to the widespread contamination and health effects observed following the disaster.