Beta particle interaction with matter

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the interaction of beta particles, which are fast-moving electrons emitted from atomic nuclei, with matter, specifically human tissue. Participants are exploring the nature of beta particles and their ability to penetrate materials like the human hand.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning how beta particles can pass through matter, particularly the human hand, and are considering the implications of atomic structure and quantum physics. There are discussions about the nature of particles versus waves and the conditions under which particles might be stopped by collisions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising questions about the mechanisms that allow beta particles to pass through matter. Some are suggesting that the atomic structure, characterized by mostly empty space, may play a role in this phenomenon. There is no explicit consensus yet, but various interpretations are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of familiarity with quantum physics, which may influence their understanding of the topic. There is also a focus on the atomic composition of matter and its implications for particle interactions.

nilic1
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A beta particle consists of a fast moving electron emitted from the nucleus of an atom. Beta particles can pass through the palm of a human hand.

My question is .. Being a particle how can it pass through the palm of a hand? I still haven't done quantum Physics but I suspect that it has something to do with it.
 
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What would prevent a beta particle from passing through the palm of a hand?
 
voko said:
What would prevent a beta particle from passing through the palm of a hand?

my reasoning is that waves can make it through somehow ... but particles are stopped after colliding with other particles.
 
nilic1 said:
A beta particle consists of a fast moving electron emitted from the nucleus of an atom. Beta particles can pass through the palm of a human hand.

My question is .. Being a particle how can it pass through the palm of a hand? I still haven't done quantum Physics but I suspect that it has something to do with it.
Your hand is made of molecules that are made of atoms. And atoms are very small nuclei with a sparse cloud of electrons around it. Almost all of an atom, and so almost all of your hand is empty space.
 
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