NOTE: Free essay sample provided on this page should be used for references or sample purposes only. The sample essay is available to anyone, so any direct quoting without mentioning the source will be considered plagiarism by schools, colleges and universities that use plagiarism detection software. To get a completely brand-new, plagiarism-free essay, please use our essay writing service.
One click instant price quote
Radiation: Properties Of Different Types Of Radiation Radiation: Properties Of Different Types Of Radiation Alpha particles: consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (Helium nucleus) highly ionizing therefore they strongly attract electrons have a charge of + 2 bent by electric and magnetic fields but not as much as beta due to larger mass relatively heavy and slow moving absorbed by skin / 5 cm air / card therefore it has poor penetrating power Beta Particles: a fast moving electron in beta radiation, a neutron turns into a proton and an electron and the electron is ejected very light (little mass) weak ionizing ability move at 9 / 10 the speed of light bent strongly by electric and magnetic fields fast moving, moves up to 30 - 50 cm in air, absorbed by 5 mm Al. Can ionize an air molecule Gamma Rays: electromagnetic rays moves at the speed of light high energy radiation with shorter wavelength than X rays never fully absorbed therefore has a very long range very very weakly ionizing because it has no charge or mass not affected by electric and magnetic fields kills living cells only emitted with alpha and beta particles strength halved by thick concrete, thick lead (25 mm) For nuclear equations: When alpha decay occurs, mass no. decreases by 4 and atomic no. decreases by For beta decay, mass number does not change, atomic number increases by 1.
Gamma decay, a gamma ray is released (energy), no change to mass & atomic number.
Free research essays on topics related to: magnetic fields, beta, speed of light, atomic number, radiation
Research essay sample on Speed Of Light Magnetic Fields