Radiation

Question 1

Alpha

Answer 1

Alpha particle has 2 protons and 2 neutrons
- High ionising ability
- Very weak
- Mass reduced by 4, atomic number by 2

Question 2

Beta+

Answer 2

Occurs when there are too many protons compared to neutrons
- Proton → neutron + positron + neutrino
- Positron gets ejected
- Mass stays same, atomic number -1

Moderate ionising ability
Lighter than alpha particles
Moderate penetration power

Question 3

Beta-

Answer 3

Occurs when there are too many neutrons compared to protons
- Neutron → proton + electron + antineutrino
- Electron is ejected
- Mass stays same, atomic number +1

Moderate ionising ability
Lighter than alpha particles
Moderate penetration power