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 atom into a different element or isotope.

Front

What type of radiation has the highest penetrating power?

Back

Gamma radiation has the highest penetrating power and can penetrate several centimeters of lead or several meters of concrete.

Front

What is the symbol for an alpha particle in a nuclear equation?

Back

The alpha particle is represented as \( \text{ }^{4}_{2}\text{He} \) in a nuclear equation.

Front

What is the process called when an atom undergoes nuclear change?

Back

The process is called nuclear decay.

Front

Which type of radiation can be stopped by a piece of paper?

Back

Alpha radiation can be stopped by a piece of paper or clothing.

Front

What is the result of alpha decay of Astatine-209?

Back

The result of the alpha decay of Astatine-209 is Bismuth-205 (\( \text{ }^{205}_{83}\text{Bi} \)).

Front

What is 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.

Front

What is the penetrating power of beta particles compared to alpha and gamma radiation?

Back

Beta particles have a moderate penetrating power; they can penetrate paper but are stopped by a few millimeters of plastic or glass.

Front

What is the equation for beta decay of Carbon-14?

Back

The equation for beta decay of Carbon-14 is \( \text{ }^{14}_{6}\text{C} \rightarrow \text{ }^{14}_{7}\text{N} + \beta^{-} \).

Front

What is the difference between isotopes and elements?

Back

Isotopes are variants of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.