Download Types of Radiation

Types of Radiation
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
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Definition: A positively charged
particle that consists of two
protons and two neutrons bound
together. It is emitted by an
atomic nucleus undergoing
radioactive decay and is identical
to the nucleus of a helium atom.
Because of their relatively large
mass, alpha particles are the
slowest and least penetrating
forms of nuclear radiation.
Definition: A high-speed electron
or positron (positive electron),
usually emitted by an atomic
nucleus undergoing radioactive
decay is a beta particle. Beta
radiation occurs when a neutron
decays into a proton and emits an
electron. Beta radiation also
occurs when a proton decays into
a neutron and emits a positron.
Beta particles have greater speed
and penetrating power than alpha
particles but can be stopped by a
sheet of aluminum.
Definition: A stream of highenergy electromagnetic radiation
given off by an atomic nucleus
undergoing radioactive decay.
How does alpha radiation change
an atom?
How does beta radiation change
an atom?
How does gamma radiation
change an atom?