Forms & Properties of Nuclear Radiation

Alpha

α or ⁴₂He

Charge: 2+

Beta

β or ⁰₋₁e
Charge: 1-

Gamma

⁰₀γ

Charge: 0

Positron

⁰₁e

Charge: 1+

Neutron

¹₀n

Charge: 0

How far can an alpha particle travel?

A few centimeters

-stops at the skin

-shielded by paper and/or clothing

-only dangerous if inhaled or ingested

How far can a Beta particle travel?

A few meters

-will not penetrate past skin

-shielded by heavy clothing, plastic, aluminum foil, or gloves

How far can a Gamma ray travel?

Several hundred meters

-fully penetrates body

-shieleded by thick lead, concrete, or a water layer

How far can X-rays travel?

Several meters

-penetrates tissue but not bone

-shielded by a lead apron or concrete barrier

How far can neutrons travel?

Hundreds to thousands of meters

-fully penetrates body

-Shielded by a concrete barrier or water layer

What is wrong with a radioactive isotope?

It has an unstable nucleus

How does a radioactive isotope make its nucleus stable?

By emitting radiation