nuclear radiation

for science exam

define nuclear radiation

radiation originating from the nucleus of an atom (has to be an) unstable isotope

identify the three types of nuclear radiation

• alpha

• beta

• gamma

mass of an alpha particle

4

mass of a beta particle

1/1200

charge of an alpha particle

positive (2+ -1)

charge of a beta particle

negative

which is an energy wave

gamma rays

name the two main reasons a nucleus might be unstable

• the nucleus is too large

• excess of neutrons/protons in the nucleus/insufficient neutrons

why is nuclear radiation beneficial

• saves lives - more people die in coal mines that in nuclear power plants

• contributes less to global warming

list the problems with nuclear radiation

• highly poisonous and toxic

• incredibly expensive

• hard to dispose of