The table below shows the physical nature of alpha particles and beta-minus particles:
| Radiation Type | Nature |
|---|---|
| Alpha (α\alphaα) | Helium nucleus |
| Beta-minus (β−\beta^-β−) | High-speed electron |
Explain, in terms of their physical properties and interactions with matter, why alpha particles have a much shorter range in air and lower penetrating power than beta-minus particles.
65 exam-style questions on Edexcel IGCSE Physics Radioactivity. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.