6.4.2 Atoms and nuclear radiation (Green Topic) Flashcards
What is radioactive decay?
Some isotopes have an unstable nucleus.
To become stable, the nucleus gives out radiation,
This process is called radioactive decay.
Radioactive decay is a totally random process.
What is activity in radioactive decay?
The activity is the rate at which a source of unstable nuclei decay.
Activity is measured in becqueral (Bq). 1 Bq= 1 decay per second
What is the count rate?
The count rate is the number of decays recorded each second by a detector.
What is the first type of radiation which can be given out by an unstable nucleus?
Alpha particles
What is an alpha particle?
An alpha particle is the same as a helium nucleus.
What do alpha particles consist of?
Alpha particles consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons
What is the second type of radiation called?
Beta particles.
What is a beta particle?
A beta particle is an electron which is ejected from the nucleus at very high speed.
Where does a beta particle come from?
A beta particle is formed inside the nucleus when a neutron changes into a proton and an electron.
What is the third type of radiation?
Gamma radiation
What are gamma rays?
Gamma rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation from the nucleus.
What is the fourth type of radiation?
Neutron (n)
