Atomic structure and radioactivity

Atomic structure and radioactivity

1. An atomic nucleus contains protons and neutrons. Electrons orbit the nucleus.

2. Radioactive materials emit ionising radiation from their nucleus

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

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

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

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