Radiation Flashcards
1
Q
When an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle….
A
Atomic (proton) number = decreases by 2
Mass (proton + neutron) number = decreases by 4
2
Q
When an unstable nucleus emits a beta particle…..
A
Atomic (proton) number = increases by 1
Mass (proton + neutron) number = stays the same
3
Q
What particle is released in alpha radiation?
A
Helium nucleus (two protons, two neutrons)
4
Q
What particle is released in Beta- radiation?
A
Electron
5
Q
Alpha
A
Very ionising
Low penetration (stopped by paper)
6
Q
Beta
A
Moderate ionisation
Stopped by aluminium
7
Q
Gamma
A
Not very ionising
Stopped by lead
8
Q
Sources of background radiation
A
Food and drink
Medical
Radon gas
Cosmic rays
