Radioactive decay
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Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting ionizing particles such as alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. Alpha decay occurs when an atom ejects an alpha particle (helium nucleus). Beta decay is the emission of an electron. Gamma decay is the release of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves.
Radioactive decay
- 2. Radioactive Decay The process by which an atomic nucleus of an unstable atom loses energy by emitting ionizing particles.
- 3. Beta Alpha Decay Gamma Decay (β) Decay (α) (γ) Radioactive Decay
- 4. Alpha Decay Occurs when the nucleus ejects an alpha particle (helium nucleus). - This could barely pass through a single sheet of paper. Deflected as a positive particle in a magnetic field.
- 5. An example of an alpha decay involves uranium-238:
- 6. Beta Decay Is the emission of a beta particle, or electron, by a radioactive nucleus. - This can pass through about 3mm of aluminum. Deflected as a negative particle in a magnetic field.
- 7. An example of an beta decay
- 8. Gamma Decay It is the release of energy in the form of high-frequency electromagnetic waves. - This can pass can pass through several centimeters of LEAD! Not deflected in a magnetic field.
- 9. Units of Radiation 1 gray = 1Gy = 1 J/kg 1 rad = 10ˉ Gy radiation absorbed dose
- 10. Type and Energy of RBE Radiation X-rays 1) Gamma rays 1 Beta particles (>30 keV) 1 Beta particles (<30 keV) 1.7 Neutrons (<0.02 MeV) 2-5 10 (body), Neutrons (1-10 MeV) 30 (eyes) 10 (body), Protons (1-10 MeV) 30 (eyes Alphas from natural 10-20 radioactivity
- 11. 1 rem = REB x 1 rad roentgen equivalent man