Describe two reasons why an alpha particle is less penetrating than a beta or gamma particle.

1. Heavy mass

2. greater charge

Explanation:

An alpha particle has two protons and two neutrons. It has +2 e charge. It is a heavy mass particle. Thus, when it tends to penetrate even a thin sheet, it loses its energy very quickly because of its interaction with the material particles.

Beta particle is a high energy electron or positron. It carries 1 unit charge and has very less mass in comparison to an alpha particle. Thus, it has more penetrating power than alpha particle.

A gamma particle is charge less and mass less highly energetic particle. Thus, it has highest penetrating power.

hi there!

out of the two, (b) precision would be more reasonable.   however, both a and b could be pretty reasonable.

-awesomerepublic   : )