Multiple choice

Which of the following particles produced by radioactive decay processes is the heaviest?

  1. Neutrinos

  2. Positron

  3. Beta particles

  4. Alpha particle

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The alpha particle is a type of ionizing radiation. With its partners the gamma particles and beta particles, alpha particles are one of the most prevalent forms of radiation. An alpha particle is essentially a helium nucleus, which consists of two neutrons and two protons, without electrons, giving it a net positive charge. Due to its relatively high mass, alpha particles are the most destructive form of ionizing radiation.

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