True or False: Alpha particles are more damaging to living tissue due to their mass and charge compared to other types of ionizing radiation.

Alpha particles are indeed more damaging to living tissue compared to other types of ionizing radiation, and this is primarily due to their mass and charge. Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, making them relatively heavy compared to beta particles or gamma rays. Their positive charge enables them to interact more strongly with matter, leading to a higher probability of ionization when they collide with atoms in biological tissues.

When alpha particles are emitted, they have a limited penetration ability; they cannot penetrate the outer layer of human skin. However, if alpha-emitting materials are ingested, inhaled, or enter the body through a wound, they can cause significant internal damage. The dense energy deposition by alpha particles over a very short distance results in highly localized damage to cells and DNA, increasing the risk of cancer or other cellular damage.

In contrast, other forms of radiation, like beta particles or gamma rays, while also harmful, tend to be less damaging per unit of energy deposited in biological tissues when considering penetrating ability and energy distribution. This distinction highlights why the statement is true: alpha particles' characteristics make them particularly dangerous when they interact directly with living cells inside the body.