Protection Unit 1 Chapter 1 Introduction to Radiation Protection Workbook and Quiz Latest Update Graded A+

GCSE Physics Radioactivity Questions and Answers Latest Version Already Passed What is radioactivity? Radioactivity is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei release energy in the form of radiation. What are the three types of radiation emitted by radioactive substances? Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. What is the difference between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation? Alpha radiation consists of two protons and two neutrons, beta radiation involves the emission of an electron or positron, and gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation with high energy. What happens to the atomic number and mass number of an atom during alpha decay? During alpha decay, the atomic number decreases by 2 and the mass number decreases by 4. 2 What is the penetrating power of alpha particles? Alpha particles have low penetrating power and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of skin. How can beta particles be stopped? Beta particles can be stopped by a sheet of aluminum or other light metals. What is the penetrating power of gamma rays? Gamma rays have high penetrating power and require thick lead or several meters of concrete to be stopped effectively. What happens to the atomic number and mass number of an atom during beta decay? During beta decay, the atomic number increases by 1, while the mass number remains unchanged. What is the main source of background radiation? Background radiation comes from natural sources such as cosmic rays, radon gas, and terrestrial radiation from rocks and soil. 3 How does a Geiger-Müller counter detect radiation? A Geiger-Müller counter detects radiation by counting the number of ionizing events caused by the radiation as it passes through a gas inside the tube. What is the half-life of a radioactive substance? The half-life is the time it takes for half of the nuclei in a sample of a radioactive substance to decay. Why is it important to know the half-life of a substance? Knowing the half-life helps determine the rate of decay and how long a substance will remain radioactive. What are some uses of radioactive isotopes? Radioactive isotopes are used in medical imaging, cancer treatment, and radiocarbon dating. What is the relationship between half-life and the activity of a radioactive substance? The activity decreases over time as the number of radioactive nuclei decreases, and this relationship is tied to the substance’s half-life.