Which row is correct for α, β and γ radiation? | | α | β | γ | |-------|------|------|------| | A | Is it deflected by a magnetic field? | yes | no | no | | B | Is it deflected by an electric field? | yes | yes | yes | | C | Does it have a positive charge? | yes | no | no | | D | Does it come from outside the nucleus? | no | yes | no | - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 26 - 2022 - Paper 2

Similar to magnetic fields, α radiation (positive charge) is deflected in the direction of the electric field. β radiation (negative charge) is also deflected towards the positive plate. However, γ radiation, being neutral, remains unaffected by electric fields. The correct response is:

• α: yes
• β: yes
• γ: yes

α particles have a positive charge due to their composition of two protons and two neutrons. β particles are negatively charged electrons, while γ radiation has no charge. Thus, this leads to:

• α: yes
• β: no
• γ: no

α radiation originates from the nucleus of an atom during radioactive decay. In contrast, β radiation often originates from processes in the nucleus but can involve electrons emitted from within the atom. γ radiation is emitted from the nucleus as well. Therefore, the answers are:

• α: no
• β: yes
• γ: no