(a)Complete the diagram to show the paths of α, β and γ radiations.

(b)Why is the source S kept in a thick lead walled container with a narrow opening?

(c) Name the radiation which is unaffected by the electrostatic field.

(d) Which radiation is deflected the most? Give reason. 

(e) Which among the three radiations causes the least biological damage?

Solution:

(a)

(b) Radiation from other directions has the potential to cause biological damage. As a result, radioactive compounds are housed in heavy lead containers with a very tight entrance to prevent harmful radiations.

(c) Gamma radiation is the radiation that is unaffected by the electrostatic field.

(d) Beta radiations are the ones that deflect the most. Because the charge on a beta particle is negative, whereas the charge on an alpha particle is positive. Hence, the deflection of a beta particle is in the opposite direction of an alpha particle. As a result, a beta particle is significantly lighter than an alpha particle.

(e) Alpha rays produce the least amount of biological damage.