Radioactivity

Front

What is radioactivity?

Back

Radioactivity is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What are the three main types of nuclear radiation?

Back

Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation.

Front

What is alpha radiation?

Back

Alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei (2 protons and 2 neutrons) and has low penetrating power.

Front

What is beta radiation?

Back

Beta radiation consists of high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation with high energy and high penetrating power.

Front

How can gamma radiation be shielded?

Back

Gamma radiation can be shielded using several inches of lead or concrete.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the process of combining small atomic nuclei to form a larger nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a large atomic nucleus into smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy.

Front

What happens to unstable nuclei?

Back

Unstable nuclei will decay by emitting radiation to achieve stability.

Front

What is an isotope?

Back

An isotope is an atom of the same element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons.