Radiation

Question 1

why are some nuclei unstable

Answer 1

imbalance in forces between particles in nucleus

Question 2

what happens when an unstable nuclei emits radiation and why

Answer 2

nuclear radiation to become more stable

Question 3

what happens when radiation occurs

Answer 3

radioactive decay - random process
takes some energy with it
This reduces the overall energy of the nucleus
This makes the nucleus more stable

Question 4

what is alpha radiation

Answer 4

same as a helium nucleus: his is because they consist of two neutrons and two protons

alpha least penetrating, and highest ionisation