Atomic StructureTopic Summary
Topic Summary: Radioactive Decay
Part of Radioactive Decay — GCSE Physics
This topic summary covers Topic Summary: Radioactive Decay within Radioactive Decay for GCSE Physics. Revise Radioactive Decay in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 14 of 14 in this topic. Use this topic summary to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 14 of 14
Practice
13 questions
Recall
6 flashcards
Topic Summary: Radioactive Decay
Key Terms
- Alpha (α): 2p + 2n, charge +2
- Beta (β): Electron, charge −1
- Gamma (γ): EM wave, no charge
- Ionisation: Removing electrons from atoms
Key Facts
- Alpha: stopped by paper; most ionising
- Beta: stopped by aluminium
- Gamma: reduced by thick lead
- High ionising = low penetrating
- Decay is random and spontaneous
Nuclear Equation Changes
- Alpha: A − 4, Z − 2
- Beta: A same, Z + 1
- Gamma: A same, Z same
- Alpha + beta → element changes
Exam Tips
- Balance both A and Z in equations
- Alpha particle = ⁴₂He
- Beta particle = ⁰₋₁e
- Gamma = most penetrating, least ionising