Nuclear Radiation

Question 1

Alpha radiation

Answer 1

Helium nucleus

Consisting of two protons and two neutrons

Question 2

Beta

Answer 2

-1

Electron

Question 3

Gamma

Answer 3

Electromagnetic wave of energy

Question 4

Ionising power

Answer 4

Alpha: enormous
Beta: moderate
Gamma: poor

Question 5

Penetrating ability

Answer 5

Alpha: stopped by 2-4 cm of paper
Beta: stopped by 5mm of aluminium
Gamma: thick lead is an effective shield but cannot stop the radiation completely

Question 6

How did Rutherford deduce the small size of the nucleus

Answer 6

The small number of alpha particles that were repealed away

Question 7

What is ionisation

Answer 7

The process of changing a neutral atom into an ion

Question 8

Precautions with radiation

Answer 8

Experiments done as quickly as possible

Handled with forceps at forearms length

Question 9

Uses of radioactivity in industry

Answer 9

Used in rolling mills to control thickness of steel, aluminium or paper.

Question 10

Uses of radioactivity in medicine

Answer 10

Gamma used to detect and treat cancerous tumours and to sterilise surgical instruments and hospital dressings.

Diagnostic scan

Question 11

Uses of radioactivity in agriculture

Answer 11

Used to measure the uptake of chemicals in plants.