Nuclear radiation Flashcards
What is alpha radiation?
When an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus.
What is beta radiatoin?
When a neutron splits into a proton and an electron. The electron shoots out at high speed, leaving the proton in the nucleus.
What is an alpha particle?
2 protons and 2 neutrons (identical to the nucleus of a helium atom)
What is the penetrating power of alpha radiation?
Not very much, can only travel a few cm in air and is absorbed by a sheet of paper
What is a beta particle?
A fast-moving electron
Are alpha particles ionising?
Yes, because of their size. Strongly ionising
Are beta particles ionising?
Yes, moderately ionising.
What is the penetrating power of beta radiation?
Range in air of a few metres, and are absorbed by a sheet of aluminium about 5mm thick. They penetrate moderately
What is gamma rays?
Waves of electromagnetic radiation released by the nucleus
What is the penetrating power of gamma rays?
They penetrate far into materials without being stopped and travel a long distance in air
Are gamma rays ionising?
Not much (weakly ionising) as they tend to pass through atoms rather than collide with them. Eventually they hit something and do damage.
What can absorb gamma rays?
Thick sheets of lead or metres of concrete
What is sterilisation?
It kills microbes on surgical instruments and food
What type of radiation is used in sterilisation?
Gamma
What type of radiation is used in a smoke alarm?
Alpha
