Chapter 24, Problem 36A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

From the figure, labels a, b and c needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Radioisotopes are isotopes of atoms of unstable nuclei. The process through which unstable nuclei discharge radiation to achieve more stable atomic configurations is called radioactive decay. Unstable atoms lose energy by discharging radiation in the time of radioactive decay.

Answer to Problem 36A

In the given figure a, b and c represents $\text{β}$ -particles, $\text{γ}$ - particles and $\text{α}$ -particles respectively.

Explanation of Solution

A $\text{β}$ -particle is a very fast-moving electron which is discharged when a neutron is passed into a proton in an unstable nucleus. They have a $\text{1}-$ charge so, they are deflected toward the positively charged plate. Hence, a indicates $\text{β}$ -particle.

Gamma rays are photons, they are high-energy electromagnetic radiation. As they have no charge so, they are not affected by the electric field. Hence, b indicates $\text{γ}$ -particle.

An alpha particle ( $\text{α}$ ) has the same composition as the helium nucleus. The symbol is given $\text{H}\text{e}$. The charge of an $\text{α}$ -particle is 2+ due to the presence of the two protons. So, $\text{α}$ -particles are deflected the negatively charged plate. Hence, c indicates $\text{α}$ -particle.

Conclusion

Gold foil experiment is shown by the given figure. Ernest Rutherford performed this experiment to define modern atomic structure, identified $\text{α}$, $\text{β}$, and $\text{γ}$ Radiation when researching the effect of an electric field on emissions from radioactive sources.