Question

Write two properties of beta rays.

Hint:

Beta rays = Fast electrons (\(\beta^-\)) or positrons (\(\beta^+\)) with moderate penetrating power.

Answer 1

Beta rays are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons that are emitted from the nucleus of a radioactive atom during the process of beta decay. The two main properties of beta rays are:
1. Nature of the Particles: Beta rays consist of fast-moving electrons (\(\beta^-\)) or positrons (\(\beta^+\)). The negatively charged particles (\(\beta^-\)) are electrons, while the positively charged particles (\(\beta^+\)) are the antimatter counterparts of electrons, known as positrons. Both types of beta particles are part of the decay process in radioactive isotopes.
2. Penetrating Power: Beta rays have a greater penetrating power compared to alpha rays but are less penetrating than gamma rays. They can pass through paper or thin materials, but can be stopped by materials such as plastic, aluminum, or a few millimeters of water. Beta radiation is capable of ionizing atoms and molecules in its path, which is one of the reasons it can be harmful to living tissues.
In summary, beta rays are composed of electrons or positrons and have moderate penetrating power compared to other types of radiation.