Question

An electric field can deflect:
A) α-particles
B) X-ray
C) Neutrons
D) Gamma ray

Answer 1

Hint
Electric field, an electric property associated with each point in space when charge is present in any form. The magnitude and direction of the electric field are expressed by the value of E, called electric field strength or electric field intensity or simply the electric field.

Complete solution step by step
We know that Alpha particles are positively charged, beta particles are negatively charged, and gamma radiation is electrically neutral . This means that alpha and beta radiation can be deflected by electric fields , but gamma radiation cannot. Remember that opposite charges attract. Only charged particles can interact with electric fields. X-rays are electromagnetic waves and are not charged. Neutrons are charge-less. Alpha particles are basically helium nuclei and are charged. So they are deflected in the electric field.

Note
Alpha radiation is used to treat various forms of cancer. This process, called unsealed source radiotherapy, involves inserting tiny amounts of radium-226 into cancerous masses. The alpha particles destroy cancer cells but lack the penetrating ability to damage the surrounding healthy cells.