Thorium-232, the only naturally occurring isotope of thorium, is considered ‘fertile’ for fission. This means that it needs a driver, such as uranium or plutonium, to trigger and maintain a chain ...

Well-known examples are uranium and thorium, but also included are naturally occurring long-lived radioisotopes, such as potassium-40. Another 50 or so shorter-lived radionuclides, such as radium-226 ...

Detected ionization decreases when smoke particles absorb the ions. Alpha, beta, and gamma emitters down the decay chain (neptunium series). Propane lantern mantle Thorium-232, alpha Alpha, beta ...

Figure one shows the observed decay chain. Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use ...

Naturally occurring radioactive material, such as potassium-40, polonium-210, thorium-232 and uranium-238 can be found in food and drinking water. The radionuclides in food may be a result of root ...

Even ignoring the irony that thorium oxide is primarily an alpha (He +) emitter and thus not a ‘negative ion’ source (which would be beta decay, with e –), thorium oxide isn’t something ...

It’s the rarest particle decay ever discovered. Scientists have clinched the case for a special type of decay of subatomic particles called kaons. Further study of the rare decay could reveal a ...

You can revise radioactive decay by clicking the links below. Click the links below to try our GCSE physics exam-style or quick-fire quizzes and test your skills and knowledge.

Chainsaw chains are the part of the chainsaw blade that cuts through wood. Over time, the chain can stretch slightly during use, which reduces the saw’s wood-cutting effectiveness, slows down ...

Each fission reaction releases a huge amount of energy (about 200 MeV) but requires a chain reaction for the ... of fissile material such as uranium or thorium. An often cited but not technically ...

A few decades ago, camera companies added rare elements like thorium to their glass to change ... you can look for yellowed glass. Radioactive decay could also cause hot spots on digital cameras.