6.4.2 Atoms and nuclear radiation Flashcards
1
Q
Some atomic nuclei are unstable. What does this mean and what is the process called?
A
The nucleus gives out radiation
as it changes to become more stable. This is a random process
called radioactive decay.
2
Q
what is activity?
A
the rate at which a source of unstable nuclei decays
3
Q
Activity is measured in?
A
becquerel (Bq)
4
Q
what is count rate?
A
the number of decays recorded each second by a
detector (eg Geiger-Muller tube).
