Radiation: Properties Of Different Types Of Radiation Essay, Research Paper

Alpha particles: consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (Helium nucleus)

highly ionizing therefore they strongly attract electrons

have a charge of +2

bent by electric and magnetic fields but not as much as beta due to larger

mass

relatively heavy and slow moving

absorbed by skin / 5cm air / card therefore it has poor penetrating power

Beta Particles: a fast moving electron

in beta radiation, a neutron turns into a proton and an electron and the

electron is ejected

very light (little mass)

weak ionizing ability

move at 9/10 the speed of light

bent strongly by electric and magnetic fields

fast moving, moves up to 30-50cm in air, absorbed by 5mm Al. Can ionize an

air molecule Gamma Rays: electromagnetic rays

moves at the speed of light

high energy radiation with shorter wavelength than X rays

never fully absorbed therefore has a very long range

very very weakly ionizing because it has no charge or mass

not affected by electric and magnetic fields

kills living cells

only emitted with alpha and beta particles

strength halved by thick concrete, thick lead (25mm) For nuclear equations: When alpha decay occurs, mass no. decreases by 4 and atomic no. decreases by

2.

For beta decay, mass number does not change, atomic number increases by 1.

Gamma decay, a gamma ray is released (energy), no change to mass &

atomic number.