🔬 Science & TechnologyUPSC 1996Space & Space Technology

The alpha particle carries two positive charges. Its mass is very nearly equal to that of:

atwo protons
ban atom of helium
csum of masses of two positrons and two neutrons
dtwo positrons as each positron carries a single positive charge
✓ Correct answer: b) an atom of helium
ExplanationAn alpha particle consists of two protons and two neutrons, which is exactly the nucleus of a helium atom (He2+).The mass of an alpha particle is very close to the mass of a helium atom as the mass of electrons is insignificant in comparison with protons and neutrons.11.2 Inorganic Chemistry 314

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