☢️ How Does Radioactivity Arise?
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How Does Radioactivity Arise?
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The cause of radioactivity lies in the atomic nucleus. There are different types of decays:
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- Alpha Decay: The nucleus emits an "alpha particle". This is 2 protons and 2 neutrons, together forming a helium nucleus.
- Beta Decay: A neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton (or vice versa), emitting an electron or a positron in the process.
- Gamma Decay: After a decay, the nucleus is sometimes still "excited" (energized) and emits energy in the form of gamma rays (very energetic electromagnetic waves).
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Through these decays, the original nucleus is transformed into a different element or a different isotope of an element.
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What Can Radioactivity Be Used For?
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Radioactivity is usefully applied in many fields:
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Application Description Energy Production In nuclear power plants, the energy from decaying atomic nuclei is used for electricity generation. Medicine Radioactive substances assist in diagnosing (e.g. X-rays, PET scans) and treating (e.g. radiation therapy) Engineering Radioactive materials are found, for example, in smoke detectors or for material testing (e.g. X-ray inspection) Archaeology The so-called “radiocarbon method” helps determine the age of finds. -
Radioactivity is a fascinating natural phenomenon that presents both dangers and many practical uses. A careful and responsible approach to radioactive substances is important.
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