Memory Anchor:

• Super Challenge:

  Stretch:

  Challenge:

Key Questions:

1. What is meant by the term 'unstable' in terms of atomic nuclei?
   • A nucleus that needs to emit subParticles to become stable.
2. How can a nucleus become more stable in terms of radiation?
   • Emit alpha, beta or gamma radiation.
3. What is meant by the term 'activity' in terms of decay?
   • The amount of radioactivity the radioactive isotope contains.
4. What is radioactive activity measured in?
   • Activity is measured in becquerel (Bq)
5. What is the definition of 'count rate' and what piece of equipment can measure it?
   • A Geiger-Muller tube can be used to measure count rate.
6. What are the different types of nuclear radiation that can be emitted and what is each made up of?
   • The nuclear radiation emitted may be: - an alpha Particle (α) - this consists of two neutrons and two protons, it is the same as a helium nucleus - a beta Particle (
7. What is a beta particle (β)?
   • A beta Particle (β) is a high speed electron ejected from the nucleus as a neutron turns into a proton
8. What is a gamma ray (γ)?
   • A gamma ray (γ) is electromagnetic radiation from the nucleus
9. What is released during nuclear fission?
   • A neutron is emitted during nuclear radiation.
10. What will stop the alpha radiation?
    • Alpha is stopped by a few centimeters of air or a sheet of paper;
11. What will stop the Beta radiation?
    • Beta is stopped by a few millimeters of aluminium
12. What will stop the Gamma radiation?
    • Gamma rays are stopped by a few centimeters of lead or a few meters of concrete.
13. Relative to alpha and beta, how ionising is gamma radiation?
    • Gamma rays are the least ioninsing.
14. Relative to beta and gamma, how ionising is alpha radiation?
    • Alpha Particles are the most ioninsing.
15. What are the different uses of radiation?
    • Radiation can be used in some of the following ways: *Thickness of paper. * Detecting leaks in pipes. * Cancer treatment. * Detection of disease.