Radioacive Decay and Half-Life PQ 1

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 is half-life?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay into a more stable form.

Front

What are the three main types of radiation?

Back

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

Front

What is Alpha radiation?

Back

Alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei (2 protons and 2 neutrons) emitted from a radioactive source.

Front

What is Beta radiation?

Back

Beta radiation involves the emission of electrons or positrons from a radioactive nucleus.

Front

What is Gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from a radioactive nucleus, often accompanying alpha or beta decay.

Front

How can Alpha radiation be stopped?

Back

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

Front

How can Beta radiation be stopped?

Back

Beta radiation can be stopped by a thin sheet of metal.

Front

How can Gamma radiation be stopped?

Back

Gamma radiation can be stopped by thick concrete or a sheet of lead.

Front

What is emitted during Alpha decay?

Back

A helium nucleus is emitted during Alpha decay.