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Charge and Size
Alpha, beta and gamma radiation differ in charge, relative mass and physical nature.
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Charge and Size
Recommended for Class 10
Charge and Size
Alpha, beta and gamma radiation differ in charge, relative mass and physical nature.
Alpha — α
An alpha particle is a helium nucleus.
It contains:
2 protons; 2 neutrons.
Charge:
+2e
Relative mass:
approximately 4
Beta — β
At this level, beta radiation usually refers mainly to a fast electron emitted in beta-minus decay.
Charge:
−1e
Relative mass:
approximately **11836** of a proton.
Gamma — γ
Gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation.
Charge:
0
Rest mass:
0
Size and Interaction
Alpha particles are relatively massive and strongly interacting.
Beta particles are much lighter.
Gamma rays are photons and are not particles with rest mass like alpha or beta particles.
Charge and Size — Advanced
Common Mistakes
Common Mistakes
- Mistake
Gamma is not a neutral alpha particle.
- Mistake
Beta is not an electron from the ordinary outer electron shell; it is produced in the nuclear decay process.
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Practice
PQ
Q1. State charge and relative mass of alpha.
PQ
Q2. State charge and nature of beta.
PQ
Q3. State charge and rest mass of gamma.
PQ
Q4. Compare alpha and beta mass.
PQ
Q5. Identify the nature of each radiation type.
Exam Practice
EQ
Q1. Compare charge and mass of α, β and γ.
EQ
Q2. Describe the nature of each radiation type.
EQ
Q3. Explain why gamma has zero charge.
EQ
Q4. State what an alpha particle consists of.
EQ
Q5. Complete a comparison table.
School-standard facts for Matric and Intermediate. Original explanations — not copied from textbooks.