Chapter 39, Problem 6A

To determine

The difference among alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The radioactive active particles are emitted during the decay of radioactive elements. These radioactive particles are alpha particle, beta particle and gamma rays.

The alpha particles are the positively charged particle. These carry the charge of the two electrons. It is same as the Helium atom. These particles have the least penetrating power.

The beta particles are negatively charged particles. These particles are formed during the transformation of the neutron to proton and ejection of one electron from the nucleus. The penetrating powers of beta particles are more than the alpha particles.

The gamma rays are the form of massless energy. These are same as the photons but the energy of gamma rays is much than the photons. The penetrating power is more than the penetrating power of alpha and beta particles.

Conclusion:

Thus, the alpha particles are the positively charged particle, beta particles are negatively charged particles and gamma rays are massless energy.