Chapter 16
Radioactivity
Radioactive emissions come from changes inside an unstable nucleus.
Connect what changes in the nucleus to what a detector records and how the radiation is used.
Atoms, emissions, background, half-life, medical and industrial applications, and hazards. For K326 / K327 (2027) / 5086 / 5087 (2026).
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.