Radioactive decay

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation, resulting in the transformation of the element into a different element or isotope.

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

Define alpha decay.

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons), resulting in a new element with a lower atomic number.

Front

Define beta decay.

Back

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus, transforming a neutron into a proton or vice versa.

Front

Define gamma decay.

Back

Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus releases energy in the form of gamma rays, without changing the number of protons or neutrons.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a type of nuclear radiation consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, identical to a helium nucleus.

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 a gamma ray?

Back

A gamma ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation of high energy and short wavelength, emitted during nuclear reactions.

Front

How does alpha radiation interact with matter?

Back

Alpha radiation has low penetrating power and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of human skin.

Front

How does beta radiation interact with matter?

Back

Beta radiation has moderate penetrating power and can penetrate paper but is stopped by a few millimeters of plastic or glass.