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Chapter 2: Problem 1

Define the following terms: (a) \(\alpha\) particle, (b) \(\beta\) particle, (c) \(\gamma\) ray, (d) X ray.

Short Answer

Expert verified
\(\alpha\) particles are made up of two protons and two neutrons. \(\beta\) particles are high-speed electron or positron. \(\gamma\) rays are high-energy photons emitted from radioactive elements. X rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation produced by high energy processes like nuclear decay, but often man-made.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Alpha particle

An \(\alpha\) particle is a type of ionizing radiation that is made up of two protons and two neutrons released from the nucleus during radioactive decay. This makes it identical to the nucleus of a helium atom. Its atomic symbol is either \(\alpha\) or He^{2+}.
02

Definition of Beta particle

A \(\beta\) particle is a high-speed electron or positron, usually ejected by a radioactive decay of a nucleus. There are two types of beta particle. A \(\beta^-\) particle, which is essentially an electron ejected from the nucleus and a \(\beta^+\) particle which is a positron, or a positive electron.
03

Definition of Gamma ray

\(\gamma\) rays are high-energy photons with a very short wavelength, emitted from radioactive elements. They have no charge and a mass of zero. They are often emitted alongside alpha or beta particles during radioactive decay.
04

Definition of X ray

X rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to gamma rays, but generally lower in energy. They can be produced by high energy processes like nuclear decay, but are often man-made in medical or scientific applications.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Define, with two examples, the following terms: (a) alkali metals, (b) alkaline earth metals, (c) halogens, (d) noble gases.

What is wrong with or ambiguous about the phrase "four molecules of \(\mathrm{NaCl} " ?\)

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