Chapter 3 Vocab Flashcards
Alpha Particles
a particle consisting of two protons bound to two neutrons with a net positive charge and the ability to ionize matter.
Beta Particles
An electron that is emitted from an unstable nucleus with the ability to ionize matter.
Electromagnetic Radiation
An electric and magnetic disturbance traveling through space at the speed of light.
Electromagnetic Spectrum
A way of ordering or grouping the different electromagnetic radiations. all of the members of the electromagnetic spectrum have the same velocity (the speed of light) and only differ in energy, wave length, and frequency.
Frequency
The number of waves passing in a given point each second.
Gamma Ray
A very high-energy electromagnetic radiation originating from a radioactive nucleus with the ability to ionize matter.
Hertz (Hz)
A unit of measure for frequency equal to one cycle per second.
Infrared Light
A low energy, non ionizing electromagnetic radiation just above microwaves.
Inverse Square Law
The intensity of a source of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance.
Ionization
The removal of an electron from an atom
Microwaves
A low-energy, non ionizing electromagnetic radiation just above radio waves.
Particulate Radiation
High-energy particles with the ability to ionize matter.
Photon
A discrete bundle of electromagnetic energy
Planck’s Constant
A mathematical value used to calculate photon energies based on frequency and equal to 4.14x10^(-15)
Radiowaves
The lowest-energy, non ionizing electromagnetic radiation
