Types of radiation

Question 1

What is an isotope

Answer 1

Isotopes are the atoms of an element with different numbers of neutrons. They have the same proton number, but different nucleon numbers

Question 2

The three types of radioactive emissions

Answer 2

Alpha, Beta, Gamma

Question 3

Most and least penetrating

Answer 3

Most-Gamma
Least-Alpha

Question 4

Most and least ionising

Answer 4

Most-Alpha
Least-Gamma

Question 5

Where is high level waste stored

Answer 5

Stored underwater in large pools for 20 years, then placed in storage casks in purpose-built underground stores where air can circulate to remove the heat produced.

Question 6

Alpha decay

Answer 6

the atomic mass number decreases by 4
the atomic number decreases by 2

Question 7

Beta decay

Answer 7

the atomic mass number stays the same
the atomic number increases by 1

Question 8

What is Gamma

Answer 8

Gamma radiation is very short wavelength, high frequency electromagnetic radiation.

Question 9

What is Beta

Answer 9

Beta radiation consists of high-energy electrons emitted from the nucleus.

Question 10

What is Alpha

Answer 10

An alpha particle is identical to the nucleus of a helium atom, which comprises two protons and two neutrons.