In the absence of an electric field, a radioactive beam strikes a fluorescent screen at a single point. When an electric field is applied, the radioactive beam is separated into three different components. One of the components is deflected toward the positive electrode because it is negatively charged, one of the components is deflected toward the negative electrode because it is positively charged, and one component is not deflected in any direction; instead, it moves along a straight path. Identify the charges possessed by the different components of the radioactive beam by observing their behavior under the influence of an electric field.

Beta, alpha and gamma ray

Explanation: The component being deflected to the positive side is the beta radiation because it is negatively charged and thus is attracted by the positive terminal of the Electric Field.

The component being deflected to the negative side is the alpha radiation, it's is positively charged and thus being attracted by the negative part of the Electric Field.

The component that went straight down without deflection is the gamma radiation. It is neutral and possess no charge and thus is not deflected.

Beta rays (symbol β) are negatively charged because they are electrons.

Alpha rays (symbol α) are positively charged because they are helium nuclei.

Gamma rays (symbol γ or. ) are neutral, since they are photons only. Comprises of the shortest electromagnetic wavelength and thus provides the highest photon energy.