α\alphaα (alpha)-particles, β\betaβ (beta)-particles and γ\gammaγ (gamma)-rays have different characteristics.
Complete the table by indicating with a tick (✓\checkmark✓) the correct type of radiation for each characteristic. The first row is done for you.
| Characteristic | α\alphaα (alpha)-particles | β\betaβ (beta)-particles | γ\gammaγ (gamma)-rays |
|---|---|---|---|
| electromagnetic wave | ✓\checkmark✓ | ||
| most ionising | |||
| most penetrating | |||
| a high-speed electron | |||
| positively charged |
The nucleus of an isotope of radium has 88 protons and 138 neutrons. The chemical symbol for radium is Ra\text{Ra}Ra.
Write the nuclide notation that describes this nucleus.
A sample contains 4.8×10134.8 \times 10^{13}4.8×1013 atoms of a radioactive isotope of radium. The half-life of this isotope of radium is 1600 years.
Calculate the number of atoms of this isotope of radium remaining in the sample after 4800 years.
134 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.