68th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2023
Which of the following is a positively charged particle emitted by a radioactive element?
aCathode ray
bBeta ray
cAlpha ray✓ Correct
dMore than one of the above
eNone of the above
Explanation
An alpha particle is made up of two protons and two neutrons. High-energy electrons are known as beta particles. Clearly, an alpha particle is positively charged due to the presence of protons, whereas a beta particle is negatively charged due to the presence of electrons. Cathode rays are a stream of electrons emitted from the negative electrode (cathode) in a discharge tube containing gas at low pressure. A radioactive substance emits alpha, beta and gamma rays.
general-science