radioactive decay
unstable isotopes become stable
this because unstable ratio of protons to neutrons
alpha emission reaction
pos. charged helium atom emitted during radioactive decay
CHANGES: BOTH PROTONS AND NEUTRON
BLOCKED BY: paper/skin
Beta Emission Reaction
electron emitted during radioactive decay
CHANGES: neutron to proton
BLOCKED BY: Aluminum Foil
Positron Emission Reaction
positive electron emitted during radioactive decay
CHANGES: proton to neutron
BLOCKED BY: Aluminum Foil
Gamma Rays
high energy photon emitted by a nucleus during fission and radioactive decay
not made up of matter
can penetrate most materials
BLOCKED BY: 6ft concrete + 6in lead
Electron Capture Reaction
the nucleus “grabs” e from shell 1
CHANGES: proton to neutron
Neutron Emission
one or more neutron are ejected from a nucleus