Nuclear Radiation Flashcards
What is an alpha particle made out of?
Two protons and two neutrons
Why are alpha particles sometimes written as a Helium atom
They have the same nucleus (alpha particles are positive helium atoms)
What is a beta particle made of?
An electron
How is a beta particle formed?
A neutron in the nucleus turns into a proton in the nucleus and an electron that is fired out at high speeds
When does gamma radiation usually occur?
After an alpha or beta decay
What is gamma radiation made of?
Energy (electromagnetic waves)
What is an alpha particle absorbed by?
A few centimetres of air
A piece of paper
What is a beta particle absorbed by?
A few metres of air
A thin sheet of metal (eg. Aluminium)
What is a gamma ray absorbed by?
A few centimetres of lead
A few metres of concrete
What are some causes of background radiation?
Gases
Rocks
Food
