Question

Which of the following radiation gets deflected most in an electric or magnetic field?

• A. $\alpha$- particles
• B. $\beta$- particles
• C. $\gamma$- radiation
• D. x-rays

Answer 1

The correct option is B

$\beta$- particles

The explanation for the correct option

B. $\beta$- particles

• Ions with a greater charge and lighter ions are deflected more than ions with a smaller charge and heavier ions.
• Deflection increases with the increase in the velocity or speed with which magnet is moved.
• Beta particles are fast-moving electrons and are deflected towards the positive plate in the electrostatic field. They are deflected more than the alpha particles in the magnetic field and in the opposite direction.

The explanation for the incorrect options

A. $\alpha$- particles

Alpha particles are doubly charged helium nuclei and are slightly deflected in the magnetic field and deflected towards the negative plate in the electrostatic field.

C. $\gamma$- radiation

Gamma particles are electromagnetic waves and they are not deflected in electrostatic as well as magnetic fields.

D. x-rays

X- rays do not contain any charged particles and hence can neither be deflected by an electric field nor a magnetic field.

Thus, the B is the correct option.