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Radioactivity

ICSE · Class 10 · Physics

Quick revision notes for Radioactivity — ICSE Class 10 Physics. Key concepts, formulas, and definitions for last-minute revision.

42 questions35 flashcards5 concepts

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A diagram illustrating the nuclear fusion process, where two light nuclei combine under extreme conditions to form a heavier, more stable nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy.
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Key Topics to Revise

1

Structure of Atom and Nucleus

  • An atom is made of three particles: proton, neutron, and electron.
  • Protons and neutrons are concentrated in the nucleus, while electrons revolve around the nucleus in orbits.
  • The nucleus is extremely small, with size between 10^-15 m and 10^-14 m.
2

Isotopes, Isobars and Isotones

  • Elements having the same atomic number but different mass number are called isotopes.
  • Atoms of different elements having the same mass number but different atomic number are called isobars.
  • Atoms having different number of protons but same number of neutrons are called isotones.
3

Discovery and Nature of Radioactivity

  • Henry Becquerel discovered radioactivity after observing that uranium and its salts emit radiations called Becquerel rays.
  • Becquerel rays are of three types: alpha, beta, and gamma.
  • Radioactivity is the spontaneous emission of alpha, beta, and gamma radiations from a natural radioactive element.
4

Alpha, Beta and Gamma Radiations

  • Alpha particles are positively charged and are doubly ionised helium nuclei.
  • Alpha particle mass is approximately four times the mass of proton, and its charge is double that of proton.
  • Alpha particles move at about 1/10 of the speed of light, or 3×10^7 m/s.

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Full Notes

Key Concepts

An atom contains protonsRadioactivity is the spontaneous emissionAlpha particles are doubly ionised heliumBeta particles are fast moving electronsGamma rays are uncharged electromagnetic waves

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Radioactivity for ICSE Class 10 Physics?
Radioactivity covers several key topics that are frequently asked in ICSE Class 10 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in Radioactivity — ICSE Class 10 Physics?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 42 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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