Question

Choose the correct statements regarding the characteristics of alpha particles.

• A. Alpha particles are negatively charged species.
• B. Alpha particles are positively charged species.
• C. Alpha particles are identical to helium nucleus.
• D. Alpha particles are electrically neutral.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

Alpha particles are identical to helium nucleus.

Alpha particles are identical to helium nucleus. When electrons are removed from helium atom, only two protons are left in its nucleus which makes it positively charged. In Rutherford's experiment, the alpha particles are repelled by the nucleus. This shows that alpha particles are positively charged.