Which type of ionizing radiation is known to have an electrical charge?

Beta particles are a type of ionizing radiation that carry an electrical charge. Specifically, they are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons that are emitted during the radioactive decay of certain isotopes. Their negative charge (in the case of electrons) or positive charge (in the case of positrons) allows them to interact with matter more significantly than neutral radiation such as gamma rays or x-rays.

The presence of this electrical charge means that beta particles can be influenced by electric and magnetic fields, which is not the case for gamma rays or x-rays, as they are both forms of electromagnetic radiation and have no charge. Alpha particles, while also charged, are heavier and consist of two protons and two neutrons, which makes them distinct from beta particles that are purely electrons or positrons. Understanding the nature of these particles enhances knowledge of their interactions with matter, their penetration abilities, and their respective health risks in terms of radiation safety.