Atoms and nuclear radiation key terms

alpha radiation

A type of nuclear radiation consisting of helium nuclei, which are made up of two protons and two neutrons.

gamma radiation

A form of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus, characterized by high penetration power and low ionising ability.

alpha radiation

A type of nuclear radiation consisting of helium nuclei, which contain two protons and two neutrons, emitted from an unstable nucleus.

gamma radiation

Electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of an atom during radioactive decay, characterized by its high penetration power and low ionizing ability.

alpha-emitting contamination

Radioactive contamination from alpha particles, which are highly ionising but have low penetration ability, making them particularly harmful when ingested or inhaled.

ionising radiation

Radiation that carries enough energy to liberate electrons from atoms or molecules, potentially causing damage to biological tissues and increasing cancer risk.

radioactive contamination

The unwanted presence of radioactive atoms on or inside an object or person.

irradiation

Exposure to ionising radiation from a radioactive source.

radioactive contamination

The unwanted presence of radioactive atoms on or inside an object or person.

irradiation

Exposure to ionising radiation from a radioactive source.

radiation risk

The potential harm to health from exposure to different types of radiation, influenced by factors such as radiation type, source location, activity, and half-life.

contamination

The unwanted presence of radioactive atoms on or inside an object or person, which can lead to radiation exposure.