Atomic structure and radioactivity

Atomic structure and radioactivity

1. An atomic nucleus contains protons and neutrons. Electrons orbit the nucleus. Radioactive materials emit ionising radiation from their nucleus.

2. Half-life is the time taken for the count rate of a radioactive sample to halve.

3. Alpha, beta and gamma radiation have different properties, uses and dangers.

4. Background radiation comes from natural sources(rocks) and man-made sources (medical uses)

5. Ions are atoms that have lost or gained electrons. Isotopes have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.