Radioactivity

Radioactivity

1. Particles

   • Alpha
     • Skin and paper
     • 2 protons twos neutrons
       • Helium atom without electrons
         • When alpha gains two electrons it becoems a helium atom and is no longer ionising
   • Beta
     • Stopped by aluminium
     • One electron configuration
     • High speed electron
   • Gamma
     • Most dangerous outside body
     • Electromagnetic wave
     • Stopped Lead and concrete
     • Short wave length

2. Ionisation

   • When radiation passes an atom it removes an outer electron, making the target atom an ion

3. Uses

   • Radiotherapy
     • Destroy cancer cells
   • Tracers
     • find leaks in underground pipes
     • track dispersal of waste
   • Smoke Alarms