# Gamma radiation is described as electromagnetic radiation, whilst alpha and beta radiations are described as particles. Explain what is meant by the term 'ionising radiation' and describe how alpha particles cause ionisation as they travel through air.

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

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Ionising radiation is radiation that can remove electrons from atoms (creating ions)
2. Alpha particles are positively charged (carry a charge of +2)
3. The charge on the alpha particle attracts / interacts with electrons in surrounding atoms
4. Alpha particles are strongly ionising because they interact frequently / have a short range in air, losing energy rapidly

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" 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/gamma-radiation-is-described-as-electromagnetic-f37d4d71) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.