Cambridge IGCSE Physics
5.2.3Radioactive decay
Radioactive decay in Cambridge IGCSE Physics: what the syllabus expects you to know, the learning objectives and how to practise.
Subtopic13 practice questions1 lesson
Learning objectives
What the syllabus expects you to be able to do.
- 5.2.3.1Know that radioactive decay is a random, spontaneous change in an unstable nucleus that can emit alpha or beta particles and/or gamma rays.
- 5.2.3.2State that alpha or beta decay changes the nucleus into that of a different element.
- 5.2.3.3Supplement: know that an isotope can be radioactive because of too many neutrons or because the nucleus is too heavy.
- 5.2.3.4Supplement: describe how alpha decay, beta decay and gamma emission change the nucleus, including beta decay turning a neutron into a proton and an electron.
- 5.2.3.5Supplement: write decay equations in nuclide notation for alpha, beta and gamma emission.
Lessons
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Radioactive decay and decay equations
28 min
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Sample question
A sample question on this topic. Answer it, check it, then read the worked answer.
Turn Radioactive decay into a strength.
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