Question

Which of the following correctly describes the properties of an alpha particle?

Options

• It carries a positive charge, has a comparatively large mass, and is strongly ionising in nature

• It carries a negative charge, has a very small mass, and is weakly ionising

• It carries a positive charge, has a very small mass, and has very high penetrating power

• It carries no charge, has no mass, and has very high penetrating power

Answer 1

An alpha particle carries a positive charge and has a comparatively large mass. It has lower penetrating power than gamma rays but is strongly ionising in nature due to its large mass and charge.