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Radioactivity is different from radiation. Things, which emit radiation, e.g., alpha particles, electrons, and gamma rays, are called radioactive substances. While emitting radiation, radioactive substances change in form. A substance that has the ability to emit radiation is said to be radioactive.
Radioactivity levels decrease over time. The time required for the radioactivity of a substance to be reduced to half its initial value is called its half-life.
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For example, if you think of radioactive substances represented in terms of a fireworks sparkler...
Radioactivity:
Radiation:
Half-Life:
Radioactivity Level:
Effect on the Body:
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ability of the sparkler to emit sparkles
sparkles emitted by the sparkler
time it takes for the sparkler to decrease to half its length
brightness of the sparkles (bequerels; Bq)
how hot the sparkles are when they hit the body
(seiverts; Sv)
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Among radiation, there are various types including alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and neutrons. X-rays are one kind of radiation. Depending upon the type of radiation, the ability for radiation to pass through materials varies.
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