Topic 6 - Radioactivity - Atoms And Em Radation Flashcards
What happens when electrons change orbit?
Electrons moving closer or further from the nucleus
What occurs when electrons move to a higher orbit?
The atom has absorbed EM radiation
What occurs when electrons fall to a lower orbit?
The atom has emitted EM radiation
What can happen if an electron gains enough energy?
It can leave the atom to form an ion
What type of decay involves a helium nucleus?
Alpha decay
Alpha decay is characterized by high ionization and weak penetration.
Which type of radiation is an electron?
Beta Minus decay
Beta Minus decay has medium ionization and medium penetration.
What is the form of radiation that is a positron?
Beta Plus decay
Beta Plus decay has medium ionization and medium penetration.
Which type of radiation is characterized by low ionization and high penetration?
Gamma radiation
Gamma radiation is known for its ability to penetrate materials effectively.
What type of decay involves neutrons?
Neutron decay
Neutron decay refers to the emission of neutrons during certain nuclear reactions.
What is background radiation?
Weak radiation detected from natural/external sources
Background radiation can come from various sources, including cosmic rays and underground rocks.
List three examples of background radiation.
- Cosmic rays
- Radiation from underground rocks
- Nuclear fallout
- Medical rays
These examples illustrate the diverse origins of background radiation.
True or False: Alpha decay is weakly ionizing and highly penetrating.
False
Alpha decay is highly ionizing but weakly penetrating.
Fill in the blank: Beta Plus decay has _______ ionizing and _______ penetration.
Medium ionizing and Medium penetration
This indicates the relative strength of Beta Plus decay compared to other types.
What is unique about gamma radiation compared to alpha and beta decay?
Low ionizing and Highly penetrating
Gamma radiation’s characteristics make it particularly dangerous in terms of exposure.
