Aluminium-26 facts for kids

Aluminium-26 (²⁶Al, Al-26) is a special kind of aluminium atom that is radioactive. This means it slowly changes into a different atom over time. When it changes, it gives off energy. Aluminium-26 eventually turns into magnesium-26.

What is Aluminium-26?

Aluminium-26 is an isotope of aluminium. Think of isotopes as different versions of the same atom. They have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Aluminium-26 is radioactive because its nucleus is not stable.

How Does Aluminium-26 Decay?

When Aluminium-26 decays, it means it breaks down. It does this by either positron emission or electron capture. These are ways its nucleus changes to become more stable. When it decays, it also releases powerful gamma rays and x-rays.

The half-life of Aluminium-26 is 717,000 years. This means it takes 717,000 years for half of a sample of Aluminium-26 to decay into magnesium-26. That's a very long time!

Where Does Aluminium-26 Come From?

A tiny amount of Aluminium-26 is naturally made in space. It forms when cosmic ray protons (tiny, super-fast particles from space) hit other atoms.

Staying Safe with Aluminium-26

Because Aluminium-26 is radioactive and gives off gamma rays, it needs to be handled carefully. It is usually stored behind at least 5 centimetres (2 inches) of lead. Lead is a very dense metal that can block radiation. Scientists use special tools to move, use, and store Aluminium-26 safely.

Images for kids

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  This image shows where Aluminium-26 is found in our Milky Way galaxy.