Radiation Hazards: Contamination and Irradiation

Explain differences in density and changes of state using the particle model and calculate density for regular and irregular objects.

Explain thermal energy changes using the particle model and perform calculations involving specific heat capacity and specific latent heat.

Explain the behaviour of gas particles and the qualitative relationship between temperature, kinetic energy, and pressure at constant volume.

Describe how scientific evidence transformed the atomic model and recall the structure, relative scale, and mass distribution of the atom.

Relate atomic number, mass number, and electron configurations to isotopes, ion formation, and radiation absorption or emission.

Compare alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation and balance nuclear equations representing radioactive decay.

Explain the random nature of radioactive decay, determine half-life graphically, and calculate remaining activity and decay ratios.

Compare the mechanisms, health hazards, and safety precautions associated with radioactive contamination and irradiation.

Apply mathematical principles to balance nuclear equations by mass and charge, and calculate net decline ratios over multiple half-lives.