Types of Radiation 0.0 / 5 ? PhysicsRadioactivityIGCSEEdexcel Created by: SamDaviesCreated on: 19-02-14 22:16 Alpha Particles Alpha Particles Helium nucleus 2 protons, 2 neutrons 2+ charge Heavy and slow moving Highly ionising Weakly penetrating Stopped by skin and a few cm of air When an alpha particle is released, the atomic number decreases by 2 and the mass number decreases by 4 Due to their positive charge, they are able to deflect (change direction) by electric and magnetic fields 1 of 3 Beta Particles Beta Particles Electron 1/1800 mass Negative charge Small and fast Moderately ionising Moderately penetrating Stopped by paper or thin sheet of aluminium When a neutron turns into a proton and an electron, a beta particle is released from that same atom When a beta particle is released, the atomic number increases by 1 but the mass number stays the same Due to their negative charge, they deflect by electric and magnetic fields 2 of 3 Gamma Rays Gamma Rays Electromagnetic radiation Wave of energy No mass or charge Weakly ionising Highly penetrating Stopped by thick lead and thick concrete No effect on atomic or mass number after emitted Happens after alpha or beta decay - you never get just gamma rays emitted Excess energy in the nucleus is released as gamma radiation No charge so cannot deflect by electric and magnetic fields 3 of 3
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