Abstract
Through inquiry, the students will learn the difference between types of ionizing radiation and how elements are transmuted. Transmutation is the conversation of one element to another by radioactive decay. They will also learn that radiation is normal and surrounds us.
Objectives
Students will be able to:
- Follow directions
- calculate the number of protons and neutrons in difference elements
- understand that when the neutron/ protons ratio is uneven, alpha or beta decay occurs
- estimate their annual dose of radiation due to their surrounding and life style
- calculate the amounts of alpha, beta and gamma radiation emitted from a radioactive sample
- understand how the radioactive isotope can be transmuted into different decay products
National Science Education Standard
CONTENT STANDARD D: The Physical Setting
The structure of Matter
The nucleus of radioactive isotopes is unstable and spontaneously decays, emitting particles and/or wavelike radiation. It cannot be predicted exactly when, if ever, an unstable nucleus will decay, but a large group of identical nuclei decay at a predictable rate. This predictability of decay rate allows radioactivity to be used for estimating the age of materials that contain radioactive substances.
Strand 5: Physical Science
Concept 1: Structure and Properties of Matter
Understand physical, chemical, and atomic properties of matter.
PO 6.
Describe the
Following features and components of the atom:
- protons
- neutrons
- electrons
- mass
- number and type of particles
- structure
- organization
Teacher Background
For extra practice with radioactive decay reactions, go to:
http://dbhs.wvusd.k12.ca.us/webdocs/Radioactivity/Writing-Alpha-Beta.html
Related and Resource Websites
Global Radiation Patterns http://users.owt.com/smsrpm/Chernobyl/glbrad.html
PULSE Resource Page on Nuclear Radiation: http://pulse.pharmacy.arizona.edu/resources/chemicals/nuclear.htm
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