Isotopes and nuclear radiation

What is an isotope?

Isotopes are atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

How do isotopes of the same element differ?

Isotopes have different mass numbers due to varying numbers of neutrons.

What is radioactive decay?

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

What types of radiation are emitted during decay?

Alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) radiation.

What is alpha radiation?

Alpha radiation involves the emission of an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

What is beta radiation?

Beta radiation involves the emission of a beta particle, which is a high-energy electron.

What is gamma radiation?

Gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation with high energy and no mass.

How does alpha radiation affect matter?

Alpha particles are heavy and positively charged, causing significant ionization in their path but are easily stopped by materials like paper.

How does beta radiation affect matter?

Beta particles are lighter and can penetrate materials more deeply than alpha particles, but are stopped by materials like plastic or glass.

How does gamma radiation affect matter?

Gamma rays are very penetrating and require dense materials like lead to block them.

What is the role of a Geiger counter?

A Geiger counter detects and measures radiation by registering the ionization caused by radioactive decay.

What is the relationship between an isotope’s half-life and its stability?

The shorter the half-life, the less stable the isotope.

What are the uses of radioactive isotopes?

Radioactive isotopes are used in medical imaging, cancer treatment, and carbon dating.

How can exposure to radiation be harmful?

Prolonged exposure to radiation can damage cells, leading to cancer or other health issues.

What is background radiation?

Background radiation is the low-level radiation present in the environment from natural and man-made sources.