Radioactivity

Radioactivity

Observing nuclear radiation

A radioactive substance contains unstable nuclei.

An unstable nucleus becomes stable by emitting radiation.

There are 3 main types of radiactive substance -alpha, beta and gamma radiation.

Radioactive decay is a random event - we cannot predict or influence when it will happen.

Alpha, beta and gamma radiation

Alpha radiation is stopped by paper or a few centimenters or air.

Beta radiation is stopped by thin metal or about a metre of air.

Gamma readiation is stopped by thick lead and has a unlimited range in air.

Half…