Chapter 13
Radioactivity
Radioactive emissions come from changes inside an unstable nucleus.
Choose a topic
Atoms, nuclei and isotopes
Read a nuclide symbol, count particles and identify isotopes.
Radioactive decay and radiation
Explain random, spontaneous decay and compare the nature, ionisation and penetration of three emissions.
Background radiation and activity
Correct count rates for background and distinguish a detector reading from source activity.
Half-life from numbers and graphs
Use repeated halving and corrected decay curves to find activity or elapsed time.
Uses and hazards
Explain medical and industrial uses and distinguish exposure from radioactive contamination.