Edexcel IGCSE Physics · Section 7
Radioactivity and Particles
Atomic structure, radiation types, half-life, nuclear equations, background radiation and safety.
What this section covers
This section covers the nuclear model, radioactive decay and how radiation is used and handled safely.
- Compare alpha, beta and gamma radiation.
- Use half-life information in graphs and calculations.
- Explain radiation risks, uses and safety precautions.
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1
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Atomic Structure & Isotopes
Spec 7.1
The structure of the atom and what isotopes are.
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2
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Radioactivity: Alpha, Beta & Gamma
Spec 7.2
The three types of nuclear radiation — alpha, beta and gamma — and their properties.
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3
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Nuclear Equations & Background Radiation
Spec 7.3
Writing nuclear equations and the sources of background radiation.
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4
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Half-Life, Uses & Dangers
Spec 7.4
What half-life means, and the uses and dangers of radioactivity.
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5
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Nuclear Fission & Fusion
Spec 7.5
The difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
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6
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Radiation Penetration and Nuclear Equations
Spec 7.6-7.8
Covers investigate penetration safely, Include neutron emission and Balance alpha, beta and neutron equations.
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7
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Half-Life Calculations
Spec 7.12-7.13
Covers distinguish activity from detector count rate, Correct measurements for background radiation and Solve repeated-halving and graph problems.
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8
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Irradiation, Contamination and Radioactive Waste
Spec 7.15-7.16
Covers distinguish irradiation from contamination, Choose controls for each hazard and Explain radioactive-waste disposal problems.
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9
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Nuclear Reactors and Fusion Energy
Spec 7.18-7.24
Covers trace energy transfer in fission, Distinguish moderator, control rods and shielding and Explain mass loss and energy release in fusion.
Frequently asked questions
What are alpha, beta and gamma radiation?
Alpha is a helium nucleus (least penetrating), beta is a fast electron, and gamma is high-energy electromagnetic radiation (most penetrating).
What is half-life?
The time taken for half the radioactive nuclei in a sample to decay, or for the count rate to halve.
What is background radiation?
The low-level radiation around us all the time, from sources such as rocks, cosmic rays and food.
What is the difference between nuclear fission and fusion?
Fission splits a large nucleus into smaller ones; fusion joins small nuclei into a larger one, releasing energy in stars.
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