The alpha radiation first classified by Rutherford was in fact which of the following?
A)helium nuclei
B)high energy quanta
C)electrons
D)positrons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alpha radiation refers to the emission of helium nuclei, which consist of two protons and two neutrons. This was first classified by Ernest Rutherford in his experiments on the alpha decay of radioactive elements. Option B, high energy quanta, does not accurately describe alpha radiation, which consists of particles, not waves. Options C and D describe forms of beta radiation, which involve the emission of electrons and positrons, respectively.

The Alpha Radiation First Classified by Rutherford Was in Fact