How far can alpha particles typically travel in biological matter?

How far can alpha particles typically travel in biological matter?

• A. Several inches
• B. A short distance
• C. Several feet
• D. Until they are absorbed by heavy metals

Answer: (B)

Alpha particles are relatively heavy and carry a positive charge, which contributes to their interaction with matter. In biological tissues, alpha particles typically interact with electrons and nuclei, leading to effective energy loss over a short distance. This interaction causes alpha particles to lose their kinetic energy quickly, limiting their range. Generally, they can travel only a few centimeters (or even less) in air and significantly less in dense materials like biological matter. As a result, the correct choice indicates that alpha particles can penetrate only a short distance into biological tissues before being absorbed or stopped.

Alpha particles are relatively heavy and carry a positive charge, which contributes to their interaction with matter. In biological tissues, alpha particles typically interact with electrons and nuclei, leading to effective energy loss over a short distance. This interaction causes alpha particles to lose their kinetic energy quickly, limiting their range. Generally, they can travel only a few centimeters (or even less) in air and significantly less in dense materials like biological matter. As a result, the correct choice indicates that alpha particles can penetrate only a short distance into biological tissues before being absorbed or stopped.