RADIATION THEORY
A more detailed discussion of radiological theory can be found in
the Troxler Nuclear Gauge Safety Training Program manual,
provided at the Troxler Safety Class.
ATOMIC STRUCTURE
All materials consist of chemical elements that cannot decompose
by ordinary chemical methods. Some examples are:
(H) Hydrogen (C) Carbon (O) Oxygen
(U) Uranium (Cf) Californium (Co) Cobalt
Each element contains an atom with a unique structure (see Figure
A–1). The atom consists of smaller particles such as protons,
neutrons, and electrons. The protons and neutrons are grouped
together in the nucleus. The electrons orbit the nucleus. Under
normal circumstances, an atom is electrically neutral because the
positive protons cancel out the negative electrons.
ELECTRONS
NEUTRON
PROTO
Figure A–1. Diagram of an Atom
Protons carry a positive charge, and are described as having a mass
of one. Neutrons have no charge and have a mass of one. Electrons
carry a negative charge and essentially have no mass.
MASS
(ATOMIC WEIGHT SCALE)
CHARGE
Protons 1.0073 +1
Neutrons 1.0087 0
Electrons 0.0006 –1
Appendix A–2
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