Lesson 3.16

Ionising Radiations

Ionising radiation carries enough energy to remove outer electrons from atoms it passes.

Lesson objectives
Explain what ionisation is, rank alpha, beta and gamma by ionising power and range, and use the sievert to describe radiation dose.
Lesson content
1

What ionisation means

Ionising radiation carries enough energy to remove outer electrons from atoms it passes.

2

Examples of ionising radiation

Waves Ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma rays are ionising electromagnetic waves.

3

Ionising power and range in air

4

Measuring dose

What it shows Dose measures the risk of harm to the body from exposure.

5

Worked example: converting doses

6

Applications and exam context

Background radiation Everyone receives a small dose each year from natural sources such as…

7

Key terms

8

Avoid these mistakes

Assuming the most penetrating radiation is the most dangerous. Danger depends strongly on ionisation,…
Lesson progress
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