P4 atomic structure Flashcards
Structure of atom
Nucleus has protons and neutrons
Electrons surround nucleus in shells
Isotopes
An element that has Same number of protons but different number of neutrons
A
X
Z
A- mass number (nucleons number)
Z- atomic number (proton number)
X- chemical symbol for the element
Neutrons is A-Z
Ionised
Then an atom gains or loses electrons
Energy levels
Electrons occupy the space around the nucleus at a specific distance
Electrons can move levels/shells
Radioisotope
An atom with an unstable nucleus
Activity of radioisotopes
Number of nuclear delays each second
Measured in becquerels (Bq)
1Bq is 1 count per second
Radioactivity
Random process
Not possible to predict when nucleus will decay
Radioactive decay
Produces nuclear radiation- radiation emitted from the nucleus
May be alpha, beta particles or gamma ray or a neutron
Neutron radiation
Release of a high speed neutron from the nucleus, either from the nucleus or a radioactive atom or the result of nuclear fission
Alpha decay
Alpha particle is emitted from nucleus Has helium nucleus 2 protons 2 neutrons Atomic number decreases by 2 Mass number decreases by 4 4 a 2
Beta decay
A neutron decays into proton and electron Electron emitted as beta particle Atomic number increases by 1 Mass number is the same 0 B -1
Gamma decay
Gamma rays emitted from nucleus
Very high electromagnetic waves
No charge or mass
Doesn’t affect mass or charge of nucleus
Background radiation
Ionising radiation that is around us all the time
Background radiation comes from
Natural sources eg. Rocks- granite & cosmic rays from space
Waste products from hospitals
Waste products from nuclear power stations and other industries
X-ray and manufactured radioisotopes used in medical procedures
Small amount from nuclear weapon testing & nuclear accidents
Amount of radiation depends on are you live and job you have
Penetrating power
Alpha has least
Beta
Gamma has the most