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WAEC Physics 2020 Objective — Question 20

Question 20 of 50 from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Physics 2020 Objective paper, with the correct answer and a full explanation.

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A beam consisting of alpha-particles, beta-particles and gamma-rays pass through a magnetic field at right angles to the direction of the field. Which of the following observations would be made about the alpha-particles, beta-particles and gamma-rays respectively?

  • A. Deflected, deflected, deflected
  • B. Deflected, deflected, not deflectedCorrect
  • C. Deflected, not deflected, deflected
  • D. Not deflected, deflected, deflected

Explanation

Since alpha particles (positively charged) and beta particles (negatively charged) are charged, they are deflected both by magnetic and electric fields. Gamma radiation is however not deflected by both fields since it has no charge.

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