radioactivity

alpha/beta particles & gamma rays, what it takes to stop a these

why do radioactive decays occur?

since the nucleus of an atom can be unstable, radioactive decays bring the nucleus to stability

alpha decay

decay in which nucleus emits an alpha particle

describe alpha particle

• 2 protons, 2 neutrons

• 4/2 He +2

what stops an alpha particle?

a single sheet of paper

beta decay

decay in which a neutron transforms into a proton and an electron is emitted

describe beta particle

• an electron

• charge of -1

• no mass

what stops a beta particle?

a sheet of aluminum

gamma ray

waves of electromagnetic radiation from the nucleus

describe gamma ray

• no mass or charge

• emitted after alpha or beta decay

what stops a gamma ray?

thick/dense materials such as concrete or lead