What is the Difference Between Alpha and Beta Particles?

Alpha and beta particles are two types of radiation emitted by unstable atomic nuclei during radioactive decay. They have different properties and effects on living tissue:

Alpha particles:

• Composed of two neutrons and two protons, essentially a helium nucleus.
• Carry a positive charge.
• Large in size compared to beta particles.
• Have low penetration power, stopped by a thick sheet of paper or the outer layer of dead skin.
• Most dangerous when inhaled or ingested, as they can damage sensitive living tissue.

Beta particles:

• Consist of high-energy electrons or positrons with a negative charge.
• Much smaller in size than alpha particles.
• Have higher penetration power, capable of penetrating the skin and causing damage such as skin burns.
• Can be stopped by a layer of clothing or a thin layer of a substance like aluminum.
• Less damaging to living tissue and DNA compared to alpha particles due to more widely spaced ionizations.

In summary, alpha particles are larger and carry a positive charge, while beta particles are smaller and carry a negative charge. Alpha particles have lower penetration power but can cause more damage to living tissue when ingested or inhaled. Beta particles have higher penetration power but are less damaging to living tissue and DNA.

Comparative Table: Alpha vs Beta Particles

Here is a table summarizing the differences between alpha and beta particles:

Please note that a positron is an anti-particle with a positive charge. Microscopic black holes and fast-moving neutrinos can also emit beta particles.