6.4.2 Atoms and nuclear radiation

You will need to use a combination of the materials we have collected here to enable you to succeed. The most important factor will always be your effort. Use the knowledge of your teacher, attend revision sessions, ask when you need help. Most importantly of all, stay confident! You can do this!

Learning Checklist & Knowledge Organisers

6.4.2 Atoms and nuclear radiation (Higher & Foundation)

Describe and apply the idea that the activity of a radioactive source is the rate at which its unstable nuclei decay, measured in Becquerel (Bq) by a Geiger-Muller tube
Describe the penetration through materials, the range in air and the ionising power for alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays
Apply knowledge of the uses of radiation to evaluate the best sources of radiation to use in a given situation
Use the names and symbols of common nuclei and particles to complete balanced nuclear equations, by balancing the atomic numbers and mass numbers
Define half-life of a radioactive isotope
HT ONLY: Determine the half-life of a radioactive isotope from given information and calculate the net decline, expressed as a ratio, in a radioactive emission after a given number of half-lives
Compare the hazards associated with contamination and irradiation and outline suitable precautions taken to protect against any hazard the radioactive sources may present
Discuss the importance of publishing the findings of studies into the effects of radiation on humans and sharing findings with other scientists so that they can be checked by peer review