Question
Why are alpha and beta rays deflected in opposite directions in a magnetic field? Why are gamma rays not deflected at all? Why are alpha particles with the same velocity deflected less than beta particles?
Answers
Steve
alpha particles have positive charge and are heavy
beta particles have negative charge and are light
F=ma means that heavier particles are accelerated less by the same force
gamma rays are just photons, with no charge
beta particles have negative charge and are light
F=ma means that heavier particles are accelerated less by the same force
gamma rays are just photons, with no charge