Describe the characteristics of alpha particles

• Structure

  alpha particle consists of a helium nucleus

  alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons
• Penetration:

  alpha particles are very poorly penetrating

  alpha particles can penetrate a few cm in air
• Deflection:

  alpha particles have a greater charge than beta particles but beta particles have much less mass

  alpha particles and beta particles are deflected in opposite directions in an electric field