Radiation & Radioisotopes Flashcards
Define isotopes?
Isotopes are when atoms of an element have the same number of protons (same atomic number) but different number of neutrons (different mass number)v
Do isotopes have the same chemical properties?
Yes, they have identical chemical properties (same number of valence electrons) but different physical properties like mass and density
Are all isotopes stable?
No, some are unstable and thus radioactive
What are radioisotopes?
A radioisotope is an unstable atom as the forces are unbalanced; the nucleus has an excess of internal energy.
What happens when radioisotopes are unstable?
Radiation is emitted from the nucleus as energy or particles through radioactive decay
What is radioactive decay?
The process by which an unstable nucleus rearranges itself and loses energy via radiation
What are alpha particles?
When two protons and two neutrons are released from the nucleus, which becomes positively charged (same as a helium nuclei)
What are beta particles?
Beta particles are high energy electrons which are emitted when a neutron decomposes into a proton and an electron. Atomic number increases by 1 (1 more proton)
What is gamma radiation?
A wave of energy emitted after alpha or beta decay, does not change structure of the atom
Charge of alpha, beta and gamma?
alpha: positive, beta: negative, gamma: neutral/no charge
Why is an atom unstable? What does it do to become stable?
Atoms are unstable as the electromagnetic attraction/force is unbalanced, caused by excess of protons or neutrons. To become stable atoms release radiation from the nucleus.
Why do atoms give out radiation?
Atoms give out radiation to become stable
What is radioactive decay???
no
Change to emitting atom? Beta
Atomic number: +1
Mass number: same
Blocked by? Alpha
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