Question detail
Which type of radiation is most likely to cause ionisation in materials it passes through?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
- A. Alpha radiation
- B. Beta radiation
- C. Gamma radiation
- D. All types equally
Answer
Alpha radiation
Explanation
Alpha radiation is strongly ionising due to its larger mass and charge, making it more likely to ionise atoms in materials.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Radiation Penetration
Students often confuse the penetration abilities of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, thinking that alpha radiation can penetrate materials as well as beta or gamma radiation.
Remember that alpha particles are the least penetrating and can be stopped by paper, while beta particles can penetrate paper but are stopped by aluminum, and gamma rays are highly penetrating and require thick lead or concrete to reduce their intensity.
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