Which materials can beta particles penetrate?

Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive decay. Their penetration ability is greater than that of alpha particles but less than that of gamma rays.

When considering the ability of beta particles to penetrate materials, it's important to note that they can travel through several centimeters of materials such as lead and can penetrate air to a much greater extent, often measured in meters. This is due to their relatively small mass and charge, which allows them to pass through materials that would block larger particles like alpha particles.

While some options suggest that beta particles can penetrate certain materials to various extents, the correct choice accurately reflects the significant penetration capacity of beta particles, specifying both the few centimeters of lead and the few meters of air they can traverse. This understanding of the interactions between beta particles and matter highlights their unique properties in the context of radiation physics.

Other choices may limit the context too narrowly, either by mentioning materials that cannot withstand the exposure of beta particles to the same degree or by inaccurately estimating their penetration capabilities.