– Why are alpha- and beta radiation referred as particles, whilst gamma radiation as rays?

Question

– Why are alpha- and beta radiation referred as particles, whilst gamma radiation as rays?

In: Physics

Answer 1

Because alpha and Beta literally are particles.

Alpha radiation is literally chunks of atomic nuclei getting flung off as little clumps of protons and neutrons. Beta particles are the same thing but with electrons.

While X and Gamma rays are pure energy.