☢️ Radioactivity

Question 1

What is an isotope?

Answer 1

Atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Question 2

Describe alpha, beta, and gamma radiation.

Answer 2

Alpha (α): Helium nucleus; low penetration; stopped by paper.

Beta (β): High-speed electron; moderate penetration; stopped by aluminum.

Gamma (γ): Electromagnetic wave; high penetration; reduced by thick lead.

Question 3

What is half-life?

Answer 3

The time taken for half the nuclei in a radioactive sample to decay.

Question 4

How is radioactive decay represented in equations?

Answer 4

Using nuclear equations that show the parent nucleus transforming into a daughter nucleus and emitted radiation.

Question 5

What are the uses of radioactivity in medicine?

Answer 5

Cancer treatment (radiotherapy), medical imaging (tracers), and sterilization of equipment.

Question 6

What is nuclear fission?

Answer 6

The splitting of a large nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy and neutrons.

Question 7

What is nuclear fusion?

Answer 7

The combining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Question 8

What are the challenges of harnessing nuclear fusion for energy?

Answer 8

Requires extremely high temperatures and pressures; currently not energy-efficient.

Question 9

What is background radiation?

Answer 9

Radiation from natural and artificial sources present in the environment.

Question 10

How can exposure to radiation be minimized?

Answer 10

Using shielding, limiting time of exposure, and maintaining distance from sources.