Question

Among alpha, beta and gamma radiations, which are the ones affected by a magnetic field?

Answer 1

Alpha particles consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, giving them a charge of +2. They are relatively massive particles which gives them high momentum coming out of nuclear decays. So their paths are bent in a magnetic field, but not very much.

Beta particles are electrons which have an electric charge of - 1. They are light and their momentum is generally smaller than the alpha when produced in nuclear decays. So beta trajectories are generally bent significantly more than alpha ones in given magnetic feild.

Gamma rays are high - energy photons of light, which have zero electric charge. So they are not affected by magnetic fields.