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Simple Explanation:
Radioactive Decay: The spontaneous decomposition of an unstable nucleus into a a more stable one, emitting energized particles and/or electromagnetic radiation as a byproduct.
Radioactivity: The process of emitting energy from an unstable nucleus.
Alpha Radiation (α)
Occurs when an unstable nucleus needs to lose mass.
Products: Energized helium-4 nuclei.
Penetration: Low, can be stopped by a sheet of paper.
Ionizing Power: High.
Beta-Minus Radiation (β⁻)
Occurs when an unstable nucleus has too many neutrons.
Products: Energized electrons and antineutrinos.
Penetration: Moderate, can be stopped by a thin sheet of low-density metal.
Ionizing Power: Moderate.
Beta-Plus Radiation (β⁺)
Occurs when an unstable nucleus has too many protons.
Products: Energized positrons and neutrinos.
Penetration: Moderate, can be stopped by a thin sheet of low-density metal.
Ionizing Power: Moderate.
Neutron Radiation (n)
Occurs during nuclear reactions.
Products: Energized neutrons.
Penetration: Moderate, can be stopped by a few centimeters of low-density metal.
Ionizing Power: Moderate.
Gamma Radiation (γ)
Occurs when a nucleus releases energy during radioactive decay.
Products: High-energy photons (gamma rays).
Penetration: High, can be stopped by a thick sheet of high-density metal.
Ionizing Power: Low.
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