Nuclear Decay: Alpha Beta and Gamma Explained

The video tutorial by Pauline Mouillard covers the three types of radioactive decay: alpha, beta, and gamma. Alpha decay involves the emission of alpha particles, which are helium nuclei, and is characterized by low penetration power. Beta decay involves the emission of beta particles, which are high-energy electrons, and includes beta plus and beta minus decay. Gamma decay involves the release of gamma rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, without changing the atom's structure. The video also discusses the health effects and medical applications of these decay types.

What is emitted during alpha decay?

• A neutron

• A beta particle

• A gamma ray

• An alpha particle

Which of the following is a potential health risk of alpha particles?

• They cause immediate skin burns

• They are harmful if ingested or inhaled

• They are harmless to humans

• They can penetrate deep into the body

What is a characteristic of beta particles compared to alpha particles?

• They are larger and travel shorter distances

• They have higher ionizing power

• They are smaller and travel further

• They are stopped by a sheet of paper

In beta plus decay, what happens to a proton?

• It turns into a gamma ray

• It remains unchanged

• It turns into an electron

• It turns into a neutron

What is a common use of beta particles in medicine?

• Gamma knife surgery

• Brachytherapy

• X-ray imaging

• Ultrasound

What is released during gamma decay?

• A beta particle

• An alpha particle

• A neutron

• A gamma ray photon

Why are gamma rays used in oncology?

• They are easily stopped by skin

• They can penetrate deep into tissues

• They are less harmful than alpha particles

• They are visible to the human eye

Which substance can effectively absorb gamma radiation?

• Aluminium foil

• Water

• Paper

• Thick lead

How does gamma decay differ from alpha and beta decay?

• It does not change the atom's structure

• It is the least damaging

• It changes the element

• It emits particles

Which type of decay is considered the most damaging to living organisms?

• Alpha decay

• Beta decay

• Gamma decay

• None of the above