12A: Nuclear Decay

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 product of the beta decay of Carbon-14?

Back

The product is Nitrogen-14 (7^14N).

Front

Which type of radiation has the lowest penetrating power?

Back

Alpha radiation has the lowest penetrating power and can be stopped by the skin.

Front

What are alpha particles?

Back

Alpha particles are positively charged particles consisting of two protons and two neutrons.

Front

List the three types of nuclear radiation in order of increasing penetrating power.

Back

Alpha, Beta, Gamma.

Front

What charge do gamma rays have?

Back

Gamma rays have a charge of 0.

Front

What is the composition of an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Front

How far can alpha particles penetrate into the body?

Back

Alpha particles can penetrate only about 0.05 mm into the body.

Front

What is the main characteristic of beta particles?

Back

Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted during beta decay.

Front

Which type of radiation can penetrate the most matter?

Back

Gamma radiation can penetrate the most matter.