6.1 Radioactive Decay (Types of Radiation)

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What are the three main types of radiation?

Back

The three main types of radiation are alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Front

How ionizing is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is highly ionizing.

Front

What is an isotope?

Back

An isotope is an atom with the same number of protons and electrons, but a different number of neutrons.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle is an energized electron resulting from the breaking apart of a neutron in an atom.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a type of electromagnetic wave emitted from a nucleus during radioactive decay.

Front

What is the symbol for alpha radiation?

Back

The symbol for alpha radiation is α.

Front

What is the symbol for beta radiation?

Back

The symbol for beta radiation is β.

Front

What is the symbol for gamma radiation?

Back

The symbol for gamma radiation is γ.

Front

Which type of decay is a type of electromagnetic wave?

Back

Gamma decay is a type of electromagnetic wave.