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Radioactive Decay
Introduction
Radioactive decay is the spontaneous and random process by which unstable atomic nuclei become more stable by emitting ionising radiation. During radioactive decay, nuclei may emit alpha particles, beta particles or gamma radiation, resulting in changes to the nucleus. Understanding radioactive decay is essential for explaining nuclear equations, half-life and the behaviour of radioactive isotopes.
AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.8.4 Radioactive Decay
What You Need to Know
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Explain that radioactive decay is both spontaneous and random.
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Describe how unstable nuclei become more stable by emitting ionising radiation.
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State that radioactive decay cannot be influenced by external conditions such as temperature or pressure.
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Write and balance nuclear decay equations involving alpha, beta and gamma radiation.
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Explain the changes in proton number and nucleon number during alpha and beta decay.
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Understand that gamma emission does not change the proton or nucleon number of a nucleus.
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Describe radioactive decay chains.
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Apply your knowledge of radioactive decay to solve qualitative and quantitative exam questions.
Downloadable Topic Pack
Radioactive Decay Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers
This downloadable resource contains carefully selected AQA A Level Physics exam questions covering radioactive decay, nuclear equations, decay chains and the properties of unstable nuclei, together with fully worked solutions designed to strengthen understanding and improve exam performance.
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