nuclear chemistry Flashcards
what does radioactive decay involve?
changes in nuclei of atoms
How can unstable nuclei become more stable?
Giving out alpha, beta or gamma radiation
What is the range of alpha particles
a few centimetres of air
What will alpha particles attract to?
A negatively charged plate
how far can beta particles travel?
Over a meter in air but can be stopped by a sheet of aluminium
beta particles will be attached towards..
A positively charged plate
what are gama rays
electromagnetic waves emitted from within the nucleus of an atom. They have no mass or charge
how far can gama rays travel?
a great distance in air but can be stopped by concrete or lead
Can gama rays be deflected by an electric field?
No
What can radioisotope iodine be used for in medicine?
Tracer for thyroid function
What can radioisotope phosphorus be used for?
Treatment of skin cancer