Lesson 2 - Radioactivity Flashcards
what is radioactive?
It is the release of radiation.
what are the three main types of radiation?
Alpha, Beta, Gamma
what is the other main type of radiation that is not gamma, alpha or beta?
Neutron
what does, “Radioactive decay is a random process” means?
- You do not know which nucleus will decay in the material
2.You do not know when they will decay.
What is an alpha particle/ alpha radiation
2 protons and 2 neutrons
What part of the atom is an Alpha particle released from?
The nucleus
Why is alpha often called a helium nucleus?
Both have 2 neutrons and 2 protons
What is the atomic number of an alpha particle?
2
What is the charge of an alpha particle?
+2
What is the mass number of an alpha particle?
4
What is beta radiation?
High speed electron released from the nucleus when a neutron turns into a proton and electron.
What is alpha radiation?
When 2 protons and 2 neutrons are released from the nucleus of the atom
Where is a beta particle released from?
It is released from the nucleus
What is the charge of a beta particle?
-1
What is gamma radiation?
High energy electromagnetic wave
Where is the gamma particle/ray released from?
Nucleus
What is the charge of a gamma particle/ray
0
What is ionising?
The addition or removal of electrons from an atom to make an atom become an ion.
