Understanding Radioactivity

What process allows an atomic nucleus to change spontaneously?

• Nuclear fusion

• Electron exchange

• Radioactivity

• Chemical bonding

What can be concluded about the stability of atomic nuclei?

• Some nuclei are inherently unstable

• Instability is induced by external factors

• Only heavy nuclei are unstable

• All nuclei are stable

What particle is ejected from the nucleus during beta decay?

• Beta particle

• Alpha particle

• Neutron

• Proton

What transformation occurs when a neutron changes into a proton within the nucleus?

• Nuclear fission

• Beta decay

• Alpha decay

• Gamma radiation

What is the composition of an alpha particle?

• Two electrons and two protons

• Two neutrons and two electrons

• One proton and one neutron

• Two protons and two neutrons

What happens when an alpha particle is emitted from a nucleus?

• The nucleus transforms into a new element

• The nucleus loses an electron

• The nucleus gains a proton

• The nucleus becomes more stable

Which device commonly found in homes uses alpha particles?

• Refrigerator

• Microwave oven

• Television

• Smoke detector

Why are alpha particles not a threat to human skin?

• They cannot penetrate skin

• They are absorbed by air

• They are too slow

• They are too small

How do beta particles differ from alpha particles in terms of penetration?

• Both penetrate equally

• Beta particles penetrate more

• Alpha particles penetrate more

• Beta particles penetrate less

What is the primary use of beta particles in medicine?

• Enhancing food shelf life

• Generating electricity

• Tracing chemical pathways

• Sterilizing equipment