Types of Radioactive Emissions

Types of Radioactive Emissions

• Alpha Radiation:

  • Composed of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (a helium nucleus).
  • Emitted from unstable atomic nuclei.
  • Low penetrating power (stopped by paper or skin).
  • Positive charge (+2).
  • Slow speed.
  • High ionizing power (ionizes many atoms).
  • Large mass (4 atomic mass units).
  • Used in smoke detectors, radiotherapy, and tracer studies.
  • Hazardous if ingested or inhaled.

• Beta Radiation:

  • Composed of electrons (beta-minus: e⁻) or positrons (beta-plus).
  • Emitted from atomic nuclei when a neutron decays into a proton and an electron.
  • Moderate penetrating power (stopped by aluminum or plastic).
  • Negative charge (-1) for beta-minus, positive (+1) for beta-plus.
  • Faster than alpha, slower than gamma.
  • Moderate ionizing power.
  • Very small mass (nearly 0 atomic mass units).
  • Used in thickness gauges, radiotherapy, and carbon dating.
  • Can penetrate skin, causing tissue damage if contacted.

• Gamma Radiation:

  • High-energy electromagnetic radiation.
  • Emitted from the nucleus following alpha or beta decay.
  • Very high penetrating power (needs thick lead or concrete to stop).
  • No charge.
  • Travels at the speed of light.
  • Low ionizing power.
  • No mass (massless photons).
  • Used in sterilizing medical equipment, cancer treatment, and industrial radiography.
  • Dangerous at a distance, can penetrate and damage internal organs and tissues.

Decay Processes

• Alpha Decay: Emission of an alpha particle (helium nucleus).
• Beta Decay: Neutron transforms into a proton, and an electron is ejected.
• Gamma Decay: Release of energy without changing the number of protons or neutrons.