Uploaded by Henna Ali

radioactivity worksheet

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interpret data in order to propose a hypothesis based on an irregular pattern observed over time in the Universe and
in nature using, for example:the behaviour of unstable isotopes
Looking for patterns: behaviour of unstable
isotopes
Not all observations and measurements allow a scientists to see an immediately
obvious pattern. Sometimes it takes considerable time to gather enough data to be
certain a pattern is there at all. However, once the data is collected it becomes
possible to propose a hypothesis to explain the pattern that has been detected.
Aim: to examine data collected from observations and measurements on a given
phenomenon (radioactivity), and determine if a pattern can be detected that can form
the foundation of an explanatory hypothesis.
Radioactive decay is the spontaneous radioactive disintegration of an atomic
nucleus, resulting in the release of energy. Some atoms are stable while others are
unstable and decay, emitting radiation to achieve a stable state. The emissions from
an unstable atom's nucleus, as it decays, can be in the form of alpha, beta or gamma
radiation.
Strong Nuclear Force
o The stability of the nucleus depends on the ‘balance’ between the strong
nuclear force which binds the protons and neutrons together, and the
repulsive force of the protons.\
o As the atomic number increases (atomic number = number of protons), more
neutrons are needed for stability.\Nuclei with more than 83 protons are all
unstable, and will eventually break up into smaller pieces; this is known as
radioactivity.
This diagram shows me that:
Notes:
An isotope is:
This diagram shows me that:
interpret data in order to propose a hypothesis based on an irregular pattern observed over time in the Universe and
in nature using, for example:the behaviour of unstable isotopes
1. Highlight relevant
pieces of information on
this graph (5 things).
2. Discuss with the person
next to you what you think
this graph is showing.
3. Propose and WRITE
DOWN a relevant
hypothesis to explain this
data.
4. Where could you find
out if your hypothesis is
correct?
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