Definitions
Definitions
Definitions
Alpha particle: A positively charged particle consisting of two protons and two
neutrons. They are highly ionising, but can be stopped by a few centimetres of
air.
Electrons: A negatively charged constituent of the atom, that are found in different
energy levels, around the nucleus.
5.1.2 Nucleus
Isotopes: Atoms with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
The atomic number is the same, but the mass number is different.
Nuclear fission: The splitting of a large and unstable nucleus into two smaller
and more stable nuclei to produce energy. This is the method currently used in
nuclear power stations.
Nuclear fusion: The joining of two small, light nuclei to form a larger, heavier
one and release energy. It cannot happen at low pressures and temperatures
since in these conditions the electrostatic repulsion of protons in the
nucleus cannot be overcome.
Nucleus: Is a collection of particles called protons, which are positively charged,
and neutrons, which are electrically neutral.
Nuclide: Refers to an atom with a distinct number of protons and neutrons in its
nucleus.
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Proton number: The number of protons found in an atom of a specific element. Each
element has a different proton number.
5.2 Radioactivity
Background radiation: Radiation that is found in small quantities all around us and
originates from natural sources such as rocks and cosmic rays, as well as from
man-made sources such as nuclear weapons testing and accidents.
Beta particle: A high speed electron that a nucleus emits when a neutron converts
into a proton. They are ionising but can be stopped by a thin sheet of aluminium.
Gamma ray: Electromagnetic radiation emitted from a nucleus. They have a very high
penetrating power and require several centimetre of lead to absorb them.
Radioactive decay: The random process involving unstable nuclei emitting radiation
to become more stable. During α- or β-decay the nucleus changes to that of a different
element.
5.2.4 Half-Life
Half life: The time it takes for the number of unstable nuclei of an isotope in a
sample to halve, or the time it takes for the initial count rate of a sample of the
isotope to halve. It is different for different isotopes.
Ionising radiation: Radiation that can cause cell mutations, damage cells and tissues,
and lead to cancers.
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