Question

Characteristics of α, β, and γ rays

Answer 1

Answer:

1. it is symbolized as 4/2 He : Alpha rays

2. it has the weakest penetrating power : Alpha rays

3. It is a high-speed electron : beta rays

4. It possesses neither mass nor charge : gamma rays

5. it has the strongest penetrating power : beta rays

6. its is symbolized as 0/-1e : beta rays

7. it is the most massive of all the components: alpha rays

Explanation:

Let us consider the characteristics of each of the given rays.

α rays: These are helium nucleus so are symbolized by $He^{4}_{2}$

Due to two protons and two neutrons unlike beta and gamma rays these are the most massive and thus have least penetrating power among the three given rays.

β rays: These are actually high speed electrons and are symbolized as $^{0}_{-1}e$. Due to lesser mass than alpha rays they are more penetrating than them however less penetrating than gamma rays.

 γ rays : They carry no charge or mass. Due to least massive among the three rays they have highest penetrating power.