Radioactive Decay and Half Life

Front

What is the percentage of the parent isotope remaining after 1 Half Life?

Back

50%

Front

Which type of radiation has the highest penetrating power and can penetrate several cm of lead or several meters of concrete?

Back

Gamma radiation

Front

What is the symbol for Beta radiation?

Back

β

Front

What is the symbol for Alpha radiation?

Back

α

Front

Which type of nuclear radiation is emitted when a beta particle is released?

Back

Beta radiation

Front

What is the definition of half-life in radioactive decay?

Back

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

What type of radiation is emitted during alpha decay?

Back

Alpha particles (helium nuclei).

Front

What is the main difference between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation in terms of mass and charge?

Back

Alpha particles have mass and positive charge, beta particles have negligible mass and negative charge, and gamma rays have no mass or charge.

Front

How does the half-life of a radioactive isotope affect its stability?

Back

A shorter half-life indicates a less stable isotope that decays more quickly.

Front

What is the typical range of alpha particles in air?

Back

A few centimeters.