Concept explainers
Difference between alpha, beta and gamma rays
Answer to Problem 11Q
Solution:
Alpha rays are made up of helium nuclei. Beta rays are made up of electrons or positrons, an anti-neutrino upon decay. Gamma rays are neutrally charged, they are made up of high energy photons and they have no mass.
Explanation of Solution
Alpha rays are made up of helium nuclei. Beta rays are made up of electrons or positrons, an anti-neutrino upon decay. Gamma rays are neutrally charged, they are made up of high energy photons and they have no mass. Some of the major difference between them are listed below
Variable | Alpha ray | Beta ray | Gamma ray |
Definitions | Alpha particles can be referred to as a Helium atom containing two neutrons and two protons | contains an unstable ratio of neutron to protons may decay and emit the electrons known as beta particle | high energy photons that can travel through various matters. |
Mass | Biggest | Intermediate | Small |
Charge | Heavier | Intermediate | Small |
Penetration power | Least | Can penetrate in air | More penetration power |
Ionizing power | High | Moderate | Lowest |
Charge | Alpha particles have a charge of +2e | -e | zero |
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