Question

question 1
1 pts
identify the statement that is false about alpha particles.
they are represented by the symbol $^4he$.
they have a charge of 2+.
they are able to penetrate more substances compared to a beta particle.
they have a composition of an atom of helium.

Explanation:

1. Recall properties of alpha particles:

• Alpha particles are \( _2^4He^{2+} \) (or represented as \( ^4He \) for the particle, with charge \( 2+ \)), so the first two statements are true.
• Alpha particles have low penetration power (due to large mass and charge), while beta particles (smaller, less charge) penetrate more. So "They are able to penetrate more substances compared to a beta particle" is false.
• Alpha particles consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, same as a helium nucleus (atom of helium has electrons, but the particle is like the nucleus, so the composition statement is true in context of the particle's structure).

Answer:

They are able to penetrate more substances compared to a beta particle.