background radiation Flashcards
(8 cards)
1
Q
what is background radiation?
A
low-level ionising radiation that is constantly there and is either natural or man-made.
2
Q
what is the largest emitter of background radiation?
A
radon gas
3
Q
what is radon gas?
A
it is a radioactive gas that is produced when uranium in rocks decays.
4
Q
how does the uranium producing radon decay?
A
by emitting alpha particles.
5
Q
where else can radon build up?
A
in houses and other buildings.
6
Q
where in the UK is there potentially a lot of radon gas being produced?
A
in Cornwall.
7
Q
where in the UK is there potentially not a lot of radon gas being produced?
A
in Norfolk.
8
Q
A
