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ScienceAtomTheoryCo2
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is radioactive decay? | Process in which the atomic nuclei of unstable isotopes release fast-moving particles + energy |
| What French scientist discovered radioactive decay in 1896? How was it discovered? | Henri Becquerel; discovered by accident while studying a mineral containing uranium |
| What is radioactivity? | Spontaneous emission of radiation by an unstable atomic nucleus |
| What types of particles + energy can radioactive decay produce? | Forms of nuclear radiation: alpha particles, beta particles, + gamma rays |
| What is an alpha particle? | particle consists of 2 protons + 2 neutrons + is positively charged |
| What is a beta particle? | fast-moving electron given off by a nucleus during radioactive decay |
| What is gamma radiation? | high-energy waves that can pass through human body, causing severe cell damage |
| In what ways are radioactive isotopes useful? | useful as tracers in tracing the steps of chemical reactions + industrial processes, + diagnosing/treating disease |
| What are tracers? | Radioactive isotopes that can be followed through the steps of a chemical reaction or industrial process |