Why are alpha and beta rays deflected in opposite directions in a magnetic field? Why are gamma rays not deflected?

alpha has + charge because of two protons. Beta is electron, negative charge.

gamma is electromagnetic wave like very high energy light, has no charge.

Alpha and beta rays are deflected in opposite directions in a magnetic field due to the difference in their electric charge and mass. To understand why this happens, we need to consider the nature of these types of radiation.

Alpha particles (α) are positively charged particles, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, which makes them identical to a helium nucleus. Beta particles (β), on the other hand, can be either negatively charged electrons (β-) or positively charged positrons (β+), depending on the decay process.

When these particles enter a magnetic field, they experience a force called the Lorentz force, which is the product of their charge, velocity, and the magnetic field strength. The direction of the force is perpendicular to both the velocity vector and the magnetic field vector, following the right-hand rule.

Now, let's consider the case of alpha particles. Being positively charged, they experience a force directed upward (using the conventional coordinate system) due to the magnetic field. As a result, they are deflected in one direction, usually curves towards the left.

In contrast, beta particles can be either positively or negatively charged and have different masses. When a negatively charged beta particle (β-) enters a magnetic field, it experiences a force pointing downward due to its negative charge. As a result, it is deflected in the opposite direction compared to alpha particles, usually curving towards the right.

However, the situation is slightly different for positively charged beta particles (β+ or positrons). They would experience a force in the same direction as the alpha particles, curving towards the left.

Now, let's address why gamma rays are not deflected in a magnetic field. Gamma rays (γ) are electromagnetic waves, similar to X-rays and visible light. Unlike alpha and beta particles, gamma rays do not carry any electric charge. Therefore, in a magnetic field, they do not experience any magnetic force. As a result, they remain unaffected and continue to travel in a straight line.

To summarize, alpha and beta rays are deflected in opposite directions in a magnetic field because their charges and masses differ. Alpha particles, being positively charged, curve towards one direction, while negatively charged beta particles curve towards the other. Gamma rays, on the other hand, are not deflected as they are neutral and do not experience any magnetic force.