Question

which can have either a positive charge or a negative charge when they are released during radioactive decay?
∘ alpha particles
∘ beta particles
∘ positrons
∘ photons

Explanation:

• Alpha particles are helium nuclei with a +2 charge, always positive.
• Beta particles can be beta - (electrons, -1 charge) or beta + (positrons, +1 charge) during radioactive decay, so they can have positive or negative charge.
• Positrons have a +1 charge, only positive.
• Photons are neutral, no charge.

Answer:

B. beta particles