Radoactivity Flashcards
Isotopes
Atom’s of the same element that have a different number of neutrons
Stable
A nucleus that does not change spontaneously
Unstable
In atom’s where the protons and neutrons aren’t held strongly
Radioisotopes
Radioactive form of an isotope
Nuclear Radiation
Radiation where the source of it is the nucleus of an atom
Alpha particles
Positively charged nucleus
Beta particles
Charged particles,with the same size and mass of electrons
Gamma Rays
High-energy electromagnetic radiation produced when a nuclear reaction occurs. They have zero mass and travel at the speed of light
Half-Life
Time taken for half the radioactive atom’s in a sample to decay
Cosmic radiation
Naturally occurring background radiation from outer space
Go into detail about alpha particles.
Alpha particles contain 2 protons and 2 neutrons, forming the nuclei of helium. They are positively charged. It can be stopped by paper or human skin. They travel at 15,000km/s.
Go into detail about beta particles.
Beta particles have the same mass as electrons and same size. They can have a negative or positive electric charge and travel at 99% of the speed of light. They can be stopped by plastic, wood or aluminium. They can penetrate human skin.
Go into detail about gamma rays.
Gamma rays are bursts of energy released when alpha or beta particles are produced. They are highly penetrating and travel at the speed of light. They can only be stopped by a thick shield of lead concrete.
Synthesis Reaction
When two chemicals combine to form one larger chemical
Decomposition Reaction
When one large chemical breaks up into two or more smaller chemicals
