What are the three major radiations experienced by heavy unstable nuclei, and how does the penetrating power compare for each?

α - Emission of a Helium nucleus, it has the highest mass and lowest energy of the three types of radiation, it has a +2 overall charge due to its 2 neutron - 2 proton makeup, and can penetrate up to a few sheets of paper only. β - Emission is release of a fast moving electron via the decay of a neutron into a proton within the atom, it can penetrate much farther than an alpha particle and will be stopped by a layer of Aluminium foil.Gamma emission is the release of an electromagnetic wave with the highest penetrating power and no relative mass, gamma rays will only be stopped by heavy shielding such as lead or thick concrete.

RL
Answered by Ryan L. Physics tutor

1891 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A van of mass 2150kg with a driving force of 10,000 is accelerating at 3 m/s^2. Find the resultant force acting in the van, and also the frictional force on the van.


Calculate the acceleration of particle thats velocity changes from 20ms^-1 to 40ms^-1 in 5 seconds, assuming its constant.


In an isolated container contains 1kg of ice at 0 oC. 1kg of warm water (323K) is poured into the container. How much ice (in kgs) remains after the system returns to thermal equilibrium? (by the end of the process?)


Explain why the stability of a car can be improved by widening the wheel base and lowering the centre of gravity.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences