Radioactive Decay

• Radioactive decay is a random process where unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by releasing radiation.
• This process goes on naturally in all radioactive substances until they become stable.
• There are three types of radiation emitted during radioactive decay - Alpha, Beta and Gamma.
• Alpha decay comprises of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, therefore resulting in a decrease in the atomic number by 2 and mass number by 4 in the parent atom.
• Beta decay involves transformation of a neutron into a proton and produces a beta particle (an electron). This results in an increase in the atomic number by 1 with no change in mass number.
• Gamma decay does not change the atomic number or mass number but makes the nucleus go from a high-energy state to a low-energy state.
• The rate of decay of a radioactive substance is measured in terms of Half-Life which is the time taken for half of the radioactive nuclei to decay.
• Background radiation refers to the ionizing radiation present in the environment which is absorbed by all living creatures. It has several sources including cosmic rays, radon gas and human activities such as nuclear power generation and medical procedures.
• Ionising radiation can damage living cells and lead to cancers. High exposures can cause radiation sickness.
• The principle of ionising radiation also finds applications in sterilization of medical equipment, and imaging techniques like x-rays and CT scans.
• It’s important to use caution and protective measures when handling radioactive materials to minimize exposure to radiation.

Remember to work through practice questions and understand the topic comprehensively for effective preparation.