Radioactivity

• Radioactivity is when elements that are radioactive naturally break up (decay) to produce elements with smaller atoms and emit radiation. Examples of radioactive elements include radon, radium, uranium, and plutonium
• Radioactive elements are different from other elements because they can change into different elements
• A Geiger Counter is used to detect radiation. It can be used to monitor radiation levels, especially around nuclear power stations or places where radioactive materials are stored
• Radiation can harm living things by causing atoms to lose or gain electrons, turning into ions through a process called ionization. This can upset the balance of living processes and cause damage to cells and tissues
• Jobs in which people need to wear clothing to protect them from radiation:

  • Scientists (Chemists)
  • Doctors (Radiation Oncologists)
  • People who work in nuclear plants
• Three different types of radiation:

  • Alpha particles: consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, slow down when obstructed, stopped by a few centimetres of air, cannot pass through the skin
  • Beta particles: fast-moving electrons, can pass through skin but stopped by an aluminium sheet few millimetres thick
  • Gamma rays: rays similar to x-rays or microwaves, can pass through most thin objects, takes a few centimetres of lead to stop them