Types of Radioactive Decay

Front

What is Gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable nucleus releases gamma radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic radiation. It has no mass and no charge.

Front

What are the three main types of radioactive decay?

Back

The three main types of radioactive decay are Alpha decay, Beta decay, and Gamma decay.

Front

What is an alpha particle composed of?

Back

An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, which is equivalent 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 the radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus.

Front

Which type of radioactive decay has the highest penetrating power?

Back

Gamma decay has the highest penetrating power and can penetrate through the human body and several centimeters of lead or concrete.

Front

What is the charge of a gamma particle?

Back

Gamma particles have no charge.

Front

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

Back

Alpha decay decreases the atomic number of an element by 2, as it emits 2 protons.

Front

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

Back

Beta decay increases the atomic number of an element by 1, as it converts a neutron into a proton.

Front

What is the mass of a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle has a very small mass, approximately 1/1836 of a proton.

Front

What type of radiation can be stopped by paper or skin?

Back

Alpha particles can be stopped by paper or the outer layer of human skin.