Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Radiation

Front

What are alpha particles?

Back

Alpha particles are positively charged particles consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, identical to a helium nucleus.

Front

What are beta particles?

Back

Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei.

Front

What are gamma rays?

Back

Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy, emitted from the nucleus of a radioactive atom.

Front

How can alpha particles be stopped?

Back

Alpha particles can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin.

Front

How can beta particles be stopped?

Back

Beta particles can be stopped by a sheet of aluminum or plastic.

Front

How can gamma rays be stopped?

Back

Gamma rays require dense materials like lead or several centimeters of concrete to be effectively stopped.

Front

What is the speed of gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation travels at the speed of light.

Front

What is the mass and charge of alpha particles?

Back

Alpha particles have a mass of 4 amu and a charge of +2.

Front

What is the mass and charge of beta particles?

Back

Beta particles have a mass of approximately 0 amu and a charge of -1 (for electrons) or +1 (for positrons).

Front

What is the mass and charge of gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation has a mass of 0 amu and a charge of 0.