isotopes and types of radiation

Question 1

what is an isotope?

Answer 1

a version of an element with the same number of protons and electrons, but a different number of neutrons

Question 2

what is radioactive decay?

Answer 2

when unstable isotopes decay into other elements, giving out radiation

Question 3

what is ionising radiation?

Answer 3

radiation that knocks off atoms, creating positive ions

Question 4

what is an alpha particle otherwise known as?

Answer 4

a helium nucleus. the mass number is 4 and the atomic number is 2

Question 5

qualities of alpha particles

Answer 5

highly ionising, can’t travel far in air, blocked by a sheet of paper

Question 6

what are beta particles?

Answer 6

fast moving electrons ejected from the nucleus

Question 7

characteristics of beta particles

Answer 7

moderate penetration, range in air of a few metres, can be blocked by a 5mm sheet of aluminium

Question 8

what are gamma rays?

Answer 8

waves of electromagnetic radiation

Question 9

characteristics of gamma radiation

Answer 9

short wavelength, high penetration, weakly ionising and can be stopped by thick sheets of lead or a few metres of concrete

Question 10

do gamma rays change the charge or mass of the nucleus?

Answer 10

nope