Physics Topic Practice

Types of Radiation | GCSE Physics Practice

Unstable nuclei decay by emitting alpha, beta, or gamma radiation.

Which type of radiation is just an electromagnetic wave?

What is Types of Radiation | Practice?

"Particles or electromagnetic waves emitted from the nucleus of an unstable atom."

Question 1

Which type of radiation is stopped by a single sheet of paper?

Question 2

Which type of radiation is an electromagnetic wave?

Question 3

Why is alpha radiation dangerous inside the body but not outside?

Radiation Properties

Alpha: 2 protons, 2 neutrons. Highly ionising, low penetration.

Beta: Fast electron. Moderately ionising and penetrating.

Gamma: EM wave. Low ionising, high penetration (stopped by lead).

Exam Tip

Exam Insight: Use "ionising power" and "penetrating power" as separate keywords in your answers.

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