Who Discovered Beta Radiation? | The History of Radioactive Discoveries

Explore the groundbreaking discovery of beta radiation by Henri Becquerel in 1896 and its impact on science.

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Henri Becquerel discovered beta radiation in 1896 while studying the properties of uranium salts. He observed that these salts emitted radiation that could penetrate materials, leading to the identification of beta particles.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are beta particles? Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted during the radioactive decay of atoms.
  2. How does beta radiation differ from alpha radiation? Beta radiation involves the emission of beta particles, while alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei. Beta particles are more penetrating than alpha particles.
  3. What are the uses of beta radiation? Beta radiation is used in medical treatments, such as cancer therapy, and in various industrial applications including thickness gauging.
  4. Why is Henri Becquerel important in the field of science? Henri Becquerel is recognized for his pioneering work in radioactivity, discovering beta radiation, which laid the foundation for future research in nuclear physics.

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For more insights into the history of radioactivity, check out our other videos covering the lives and discoveries of key figures in science like Marie Curie and Ernest Rutherford.

  1. How Becquerel Accidentally Discovered Gamma Rays in 1896 Explore how Henri Becquerel's accidental discovery of gamma rays opened new frontiers in radiation research in 1896.
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