Understanding the Role of Mass in Alpha and Beta Particle Radiation

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Alpha and beta particles are classified as radiation despite having mass because radiation encompasses both electromagnetic waves and sub-atomic particles. The distinction between mass and energy becomes blurred at subatomic levels, leading to the concept of mass-energy equivalence. Alpha and beta particles are indeed much smaller than photons, which are massless particles of light. This relationship highlights the interconnectedness of mass and energy in the context of radiation. Understanding this concept is essential for grasping the nature of different types of radiation.
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Hi, I'm sure this topic is pretty bland, but nonetheless!

Why are alpha and beta particles called radiation when they have mass?
 
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Radiation can be either the emission of electromagnetic waves or sub-atomic particles. In general the definition of radiation is the emission of energy.

At subatomic levels there is no black and white distinction between mass and energy, hence the concept of mass-energy, alluding to the fact they are related to one another.
 
Wow. I haven't heard that before... that's amazing. But these particles are much, much smaller than photons, is that right?
 
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