Chemistry Regent Exam August 2022
28. Which symbol represents a nuclear emission with the greatest mass and the greatest ionizing power?
1. α
2. β+
3. β-
4. y
Explanation: We can take a look at the Table O on the reference table to see what each symbol means. 1. α = alpha particle 2. β+ = positron 3. β- = beta particle 4. y = gamma radiation. Alpha particle has the greatest mass (4amu) according to the chart (mass number is on the top left corner of the symbol) and the greatest ionizing power.
Answer: 1