Question

A strong argument for the particle nature of cathode rays is:

• A. they can propagate in vacuum
• B. they produce fluorescence
• C. they cast shadows
• D. they are deflected by electric and magnetic fields

Answer 1

The correct option is D they are deflected by electric and magnetic fields

A strong argument for the particle nature of cathode rays is that they are deflected by electric and magnetic fields. The deflection through electric and magnetic fields indicates that cathode rays are streams of minute particles carrying a negative charge.

Also, cathode rays cause mechanical motion of a small pinwheel placed in their path. Hence, they possess kinetic energy and must be material particles.

Thus, option (D) is the correct answer.