Which is NOT a characteristic of alpha particles?

Which is NOT a characteristic of alpha particles?

• A. Can penetrate thick materials
• B. Short range
• C. Cannot penetrate paper
• D. Lose energy through ionization

Answer: (A)

Alpha particles are characterized by their relatively large mass and charge, which typically limits their ability to penetrate materials. The statement indicating that alpha particles can penetrate thick materials is inaccurate. In fact, alpha particles have a very short range in air, only traveling a few centimeters, and they cannot penetrate even relatively thin materials like paper. The other characteristics include their short range, which is correct as they can travel only short distances before losing their energy, primarily through ionization, where they interact with nearby atoms and lose energy. Hence, stating that they can penetrate thick materials misrepresents the fundamental properties of alpha particles and highlights why this is the correct answer.

Alpha particles are characterized by their relatively large mass and charge, which typically limits their ability to penetrate materials. The statement indicating that alpha particles can penetrate thick materials is inaccurate. In fact, alpha particles have a very short range in air, only traveling a few centimeters, and they cannot penetrate even relatively thin materials like paper.

The other characteristics include their short range, which is correct as they can travel only short distances before losing their energy, primarily through ionization, where they interact with nearby atoms and lose energy. Hence, stating that they can penetrate thick materials misrepresents the fundamental properties of alpha particles and highlights why this is the correct answer.