Comparing Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Radiation
Part of Radioactive Decay · GCSE GCSE Physics revision
This comparison covers Comparing Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Radiation within Radioactive Decay for GCSE Physics. Revise Radioactive Decay in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 15 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 7 of 14 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 7 of 14
Practice
15 questions
Recall
6 flashcards
⚖️ Comparing Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Radiation
| Property | Alpha (α) | Beta (β) | Gamma (γ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature | 2p + 2n (He-4 nucleus) | Fast electron | Electromagnetic wave |
| Charge | +2 | −1 | 0 |
| Mass | 4 u | ~0 | 0 |
| Range in air | Few cm | ~1 m | Unlimited (reduced) |
| Stopped by | Paper, skin | Few mm aluminium | Thick lead / concrete |
| Ionising power | High | Medium | Low |
| Speed | Slow (~0.05c) | Fast (~0.9c) | c (speed of light) |
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Radioactive Decay. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Radioactive Decay
An alpha particle consists of which particles?
Explain why alpha radiation is described as highly ionising but weakly penetrating.
Quick Recall Flashcards
15 questions on Radioactive Decay — practise free
Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 6 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.
Try PrepWise Free