Nuclear Equations

Front

What is nuclear radiation?

Back

Nuclear radiation is the emission of particles or electromagnetic waves from the nucleus of an unstable atom as it decays.

Front

What are the three main types of nuclear radiation?

Back

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

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a helium nucleus consisting of two protons and two neutrons, emitted during alpha decay.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during beta decay.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy, emitted from the 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

How does alpha decay affect the atomic number of an element?

Back

Alpha decay decreases the atomic number by 2.

Front

How does beta decay affect the atomic number of an element?

Back

Beta decay increases the atomic number by 1.