VIBS 222: The Atomic Age- Gadget

What is an ALPHA particle?

a positively charged particle ejected spontaneously from the nuclei of some radioactive elements

When are alpha particles DANGEROUS?

when inside the body: inhalation or ingestion

Which area in American has the highest risk for RADON?

northwest

What is a BETA particle?

a charged particle emitted from a nucleus during radioactive decay

What is the mass of a BETA particle?

1/1837th that of a proton

What is a NEGATIVELY charged beta particle equivalent to?

an electron

What is a POSITIVELY charged beta particle called?

positron

What can LARGE amounts of beta radiation cause?

skin burns

What are some examples of BETA particles being used?

PET scans: positrons

Radiotherapy for cancer

What is a GAMMA ray?

high-energy, short wavelength, electromagnetic radiation (a packet of energy) emitted from the nucleus

What do GAMMA rays frequently and always accompany?

frequently: alpha and beta emissions

always: fission

What are gamma rays SIMILAR to?

x-rays

What can stop a GAMMA ray?

dense material: lead or uranium

What can stop a BETA particle?

thin sheets of metal or plastic

What can stop an ALPHA particle?

paper

Which ray has the HIGHEST penetration capability?

neutron rays

What can shield a NEUTRON ray?

materials rich in hydrogen: water or concrete

When are neutron rays COMMONLY released?

nuclear reactors during fission of heavy atomic nuclei

What are TWO examples of neutron rays?

uranium 235

plutonium 239

What are some other ways neutron rays are released?

lighter nuclei combine to form heavier nuclei