# A radioactive source emits alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays. State the nature (what each type of radiation actually is) of each of these three types of radiation.

> WJEC GCSE Physics (Wales) — 2.7 Types of radiation · State · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Alpha radiation consists of two protons and two neutrons / a helium nucleus
2. Beta radiation consists of a fast-moving electron (emitted from the nucleus)
3. Gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation / a high-frequency electromagnetic wave
4. Gamma radiation has no mass and no charge / gamma radiation carries no charge

## Key terms

- [alpha particle](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/alpha-particle)
- [beta particle](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/beta-particle)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "State" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-radioactive-source-emits-alpha-particles-9c73053d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.