![]() ![]() A neutron has about the same mass as a proton. ![]() That is, they have neither a positive nor a negative charge. Neutrons are, as the name implies, neutral in their charge. Neutron - A small atomic particle possessing no electrical charge typically found within an atom’s nucleus. Isotope - A nuclide of an element having the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. Gamma rays penetrate tissue farther than do beta or alpha particles, but leave a lower concentration of ions in their path to potentially cause cell damage. All gamma rays emitted from a given isotope have the same energy, a characteristic that enables scientists to identify which gamma emitters are present in a sample. These rays have high energy and a short wave length. Gamma Rays - High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by certain radionuclides when their nuclei transition from a higher to a lower energy state. See also alpha particle, gamma ray, neutron, x-ray.ĭecay Chain (Decay Series) - The series of decays that certain radioisotopes go through before reaching a stable form. They also pose a serious internal radiation threat if beta-emitting atoms are ingested or inhaled. They can pose a serious direct or external radiation threat and can be lethal depending on the amount received. Although they can be stopped by a thin sheet of aluminum, beta particles can penetrate the dead skin layer, potentially causing burns. See also beta particle, gamma ray, neutron, x-ray.Ītom - The smallest particle of an element that can enter into a chemical reaction.īeta Particles - Electrons ejected from the nucleus of a decaying atom. When alpha-emitting atoms are inhaled or swallowed, however, they are especially damaging because they transfer relatively large amounts of ionizing energy to living cells. Therefore, they do not damage living tissue when outside the body. ![]() Alpha particles can be stopped by a thin layer of light material, such as a sheet of paper, and cannot penetrate the outer, dead layer of skin. Alpha particles generally carry more energy than gamma or beta particles, and deposit that energy very quickly while passing through tissue. Certain radioactive nuclei emit alpha particles.
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