A proton and an α\alphaα-particle have the same kinetic energy. Why does the α\alphaα-particle have a stronger ionizing effect than the proton as it passes through a gas?
The α\alphaα-particle has a larger charge and a larger velocity, so it is near a gas atom for a shorter time.
The α\alphaα-particle has a smaller charge and a smaller velocity, so it is near a gas atom for a longer time.
The α\alphaα-particle has a larger charge and a smaller velocity, so it is near a gas atom for a longer time.
The α\alphaα-particle has a smaller charge and a larger velocity, so it is near a gas atom for a shorter time.
484 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2 Radioactivity, covering 5.2.1 Background radiation and measuring count rate, 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission, 5.2.2b Deflection and ionising effects of nuclear radiation, 5.2.3a Radioactive decay, 5.2.3b Effects of decay on the nucleus and decay equations, 5.2.4a Half-life, 5.2.4b Choosing isotopes for applications, and 5.2.5 Effects of ionising radiation and safety precautions. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.