By: Susan M.F.A Kilani
Email: susan.kilani@gmail.com
Mobile: +962795600505
Radioactivity in general:
Radioactive decay (also known as nuclear decay, radioactivity or nuclear radiation) is the process by
which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy (in terms of mass in its rest frame) by emitting
radiation, such as an alpha particle, beta particle with neutrino or only a neutrino in the case of
electron capture, or a gamma ray or electron in the case of internal conversion. A material containing
such unstable nuclei is considered radioactive.
The penetrating power of alpha rays, beta rays, and gamma rays varies greatly. Alpha particles can be
blocked by a few pieces of paper. Beta particles pass through paper but are stopped by aluminum foil.
Gamma rays are the most difficult to stop and require concrete, lead, or other heavy shielding to block
them. Alpha and beta are particles in nature and thus are known as ionizing radiation [1].
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