P4 Atomic Structure Flashcards
What are the 3 types of radiation?
Alpha, beta, gamma
What does an alpha particle consist of?
2 protons, 2 neutrons
What does a beta particle consist of?
An electron
What does gamma radiation consist of?
Waves
What is the charge of alpha radiation?
+2
What is the charge of beta radiation?
-1
What is the charge of gamma radiation?
0
What is the range in air of alpha radiation?
A few cm
What is the range in air of beta radiation?
A few m
What is the range in air of gamma radiation?
Kilometres
What is alpha radiation absorbed by?
Paper
What is beta radiation absorbed by?
A few cm Aluminium
What is gamma radiation absorbed by?
A few cm Lead OR metres of concrete
What is the ionising power of alpha radiation?
High
What is the ionising power of beta radiation?
Medium
What is the ionising power of gamma radiation?
Low
Name 3 safety precautions to take when handling radioactive sources:
- Keep tool in a lead box to stop gamma spreading
- Sources handled at arm’s length and pointed at ground
- Audience stands back - greater distance, less exposure
What is ionising radiation?
Radiation which can ‘knock’ electrons off of atoms which is what makes it dangerous
Give 3 uses of radiation?
- Target cells to treat tumours
- Radioactive tracer
- Automatic thickness monitoring (beta particles)
What are gamma rays?
Very high frequency electromagnetic waves