Unit 4 - Atomic structure Flashcards

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1
Q

Alpha decay ?

A

Radiation which can be stopped by thin layer of paper or skin ,
Charge of +2 because it has same structure as a helium nucleus
mass number 4
atomic number 2
Highly ionising

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2
Q

Beta decay ?

A

Radiation stopped by 5 mm aluminium but can penetrate skin
Charge of -1 because its an electron
Mass number of 0
atomic number of -1
ionising but not as strong as alpha

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3
Q

Gamma radiation

A

EM waves that can be stopped by sheets of lead or multiple meters of concrete
no charge or mass or atomic number - 00
Weakly ionising
Symbol for this is a weird y

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4
Q

Which radioactive decay is most harmful outside the body

A

Gama and beta is most dangerous outside the body because it can penetrate skin
Alpha least dangerous outside the body because it cannot penetrate skin

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5
Q

Which radioactive decay is the most harmful inside the body

A

Alpha radiation because its highly ionising - this can ionise our cells and dna - causing mutations and in worst case it can cause cancer

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