Chapter 30, Problem 11Q

To determine

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