Alpha radiation Flashcards
1
Q
What is an alpha particle ?
A
A helium nuclei - 2 protons and 2 neutrons.
2
Q
Why is an alpha particle emitted?
A
If the nucleus has too few neutrons.
3
Q
What is the penetrating power of alpha decay/an alpha particle ?
A
weakly penetrating.
4
Q
What is the range of an Alpha particle in the air?
A
less than 5cm
5
Q
What can an alpha particle be absorbed by?
A
A thin sheet (a few mm) of paper.
6
Q
What is the ionising power of alpha decay?
A
Strongly ionising
7
Q
What is the helium nucleus often written as?
A
4 He
2
or sometimes with the letter alpha instead of the He.
8
Q
How is alpha radiation used in the home?
A
In smoke detectors.
9
Q
Why are alpha particles useful in smoke detectore?
A
Their strong ionising power
