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One isotope of uranium is U-235 - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 5
One isotope of uranium is U-235. The nucleus can be represented as $^{235}_{92}$U. Complete the following sentence. A nucleus of U-235 contains _______________ pr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:One isotope of uranium is U-235 - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2017 - Paper 1
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Describe the ionising and penetrating abilities of alpha particles.
Answer
Alpha particles are known for their strong ionising ability. They can produce many ions or ion pairs in a short distance, typically within a few centimeters. This high ionisation occurs because alpha particles are relatively massive and carry a positive charge.
However, alpha particles have weak penetrating abilities. They have a short range and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even a few centimeters of air. Their ability to penetrate matter is limited compared to beta and gamma radiation, making them less harmful when outside the body but highly damaging if ingested or inhaled.