radioactivity Flashcards
1
Q
what is radioactivity
A
decay of unstable nuclei emitting radiation
2
Q
what is Alpha particles
A
helium, low penetration, stopped by paper
3
Q
example of alpha particles
A
americium 241 ( used in smoke detectors)
4
Q
what is beta particles
A
electrons, low penetration, stopped by aluminium
5
Q
example of beta particles
A
carbon 14 ( carbon dating)
6
Q
what is gamma rays
A
electrons, high penetration, stopped by lead
7
Q
example of gamma
A
cobalt 60 ( used in cancer treatment)
8
Q
what is a half life
A
time taken for a half to decay
