What factor differentiates alpha particles from beta particles?

Alpha particles and beta particles are distinguished primarily by their charge. An alpha particle is composed of two protons and two neutrons, which gives it a positive charge (+2). In contrast, beta particles can be either electrons (beta-minus) or positrons (beta-plus), which carry a negative charge (-1 for electrons) or a positive charge (+1 for positrons). This difference in charge significantly influences how each type of particle interacts with other matter, including their penetration abilities and the type of ionization they cause.

The other factors, while slightly relevant, do not primarily define the distinct nature of these two particles. For example, while alpha particles have a larger mass compared to beta particles (which are essentially electrons or positrons), the defining differentiator is their charge. Additionally, both types of particles originate from different processes in radioactive decay, but it’s their charge that fundamentally separates their identity in terms of interaction. Speed can vary based on energy levels and conditions, but it does not serve as the main distinguishing characteristic. Thus, charge is the most accurate and defining factor in differentiating between alpha particles and beta particles.