Isotopes And Nuclear Radiation Flashcards
What is the mass number of an atom
The top number
Tells us the number of protons and neutrons
What is the atomic number
The number on the bottom
Number of protons in element
What is an isotope
Atoms of an element with the same number of protons but different number of neutrons
What is radioactive decay
When an unstable isotope decays into another element and gives out radiation as it try’s to become stable
What are the types of ionising radiation that isotopes give off
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
Why do isotopes release neutrons when they decay
To rebalance their atomic and mass numbers
What is ionising radiation
Radiation that knocks electrons off atoms creating positive ions
What is ionising power
How easily a radiation source can give off ionising radiation
What is alpha radiation
When an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus
What is an alpha particle
Two neutrons and two protons ( like a helium nucleus )
How far can alpha particles travel
Only a few cm in the air and are absorbed by a sheet of paper
Why is alpha radiation used in smoke detectors
It ionises air particles allowing a current to flow. If there is smoke in the air it binds to the ions meaning the current stops and the alarm sounds
What is the ionising of an alpha particle
Very strong
What is a beta particle
A fast moving electron released by the nucleus
What is the ionising of a beta particle
Moderate
