Nuclear Radiation Flashcards
Why is radiation needed for some isotopes of elements?
To give them stability
How do atoms aim for stability?
Eject particles or energy
What are examples of nuclear radiation?
Gamma Beta- Beta+ Alpha Neutron
Order the types of radiation in terms of which is the most ionising
Alpha - 2+
Beta- - 1-
Gamma - no charge
Why does alpha have the biggest ionising power?
It can attract electrons and leave positive cations
How is Beta- ionising?
It can repel negative electrons
What happens in alpha decay?
An alpha particle is ejected
What happens in Beta- decay?
A proton and electron are made. The proton stays in the nucleus and the electron is kicked out
What happens in Beta+ decay?
A proton turns into a neutron and a positron
What happens in gamma decay?
The nucleons rearrange themselves, releasing energy
What is decay?
The process of ejecting mass, eg alpha particles, or energy, eg gamma rays.
