Define radiation.
The emission and propagation of energy in the form of waves or particles.
What are the two main types of radiation?
Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
True or false: Alpha particles can penetrate skin.
FALSE
Alpha particles cannot penetrate the outer layer of skin.
Fill in the blank: Beta particles are ______ charged.
Negatively or positively
Define gamma radiation.
High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from radioactive decay.
What is the unit of radiation dose?
The sievert (Sv).
True or false: X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation.
TRUE
What does half-life refer to?
The time taken for half of a radioactive substance to decay.
Fill in the blank: Radon is a ______ gas.
Noble
What is background radiation?
Radiation that is always present in the environment.
Define nuclear fission.
The splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei, releasing energy.
True or false: Nuclear fusion occurs in the sun.
TRUE
What is the main source of background radiation?
Cosmic rays, radon gas, and terrestrial sources.
Fill in the blank: Ionizing radiation can ______ atoms.
Remove electrons from
What is a Geiger counter used for?
Measuring ionizing radiation levels.
Define radioactive decay.
The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy.
True or false: Beta decay increases the atomic number.
TRUE
What is radiotherapy?
The use of radiation to treat cancer.
Fill in the blank: Alpha particles consist of ______.
Two protons and two neutrons
What is the effect of radiation on cells?
It can cause cell damage or mutations.
Define radiation shielding.
Materials used to protect against radiation exposure.
True or false: Lead is an effective radiation shield.
TRUE
What is the main use of X-rays?
Medical imaging to view inside the body.
Fill in the blank: Cosmic rays originate from ______.
Outer space