Alpha Vs Beta Penetration
Mediumphysics
Relative penetration power (highest)?
Select the correct option:
Solution
Incorrect! Answer:
Gamma
- Comparison Matrix:
- Alpha (α): Heavy, charged (+2e). Interacts strongly with matter, hence very low penetration (stopped by paper).
- Beta (β): Light, charged (−e or +e). Moderate penetration (stopped by thin aluminum sheet).
- Gamma (γ): Electromagnetic radiation (photons), Neutral. Interacts weakly, hence highest penetration (requires thick lead or concrete to stop).
- Inverse Rule: Penetrating power is generally inversely related to ionizing power. Since Gamma is least ionizing, it is most penetrating.
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About This Question
- Subject
- physics
- Chapter
- atoms and nuclei
- Topic
- alpha vs beta penetration
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Year
- 2025
Solution
Correct Answer:
Gamma
- Comparison Matrix:
- Alpha (α): Heavy, charged (+2e). Interacts strongly with matter, hence very low penetration (stopped by paper).
- Beta (β): Light, charged (−e or +e). Moderate penetration (stopped by thin aluminum sheet).
- Gamma (γ): Electromagnetic radiation (photons), Neutral. Interacts weakly, hence highest penetration (requires thick lead or concrete to stop).
- Inverse Rule: Penetrating power is generally inversely related to ionizing power. Since Gamma is least ionizing, it is most penetrating.
This medium difficulty physics question is from the chapter atoms and nuclei, covering the topic of alpha vs beta penetration. It appeared in the 2025 exam.
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