Atoms, Radiation, and Radioactivity: Key Concepts (2026) provides a foundational exploration of atomic structure, energy relationships, radiation types, and nuclear stability. Learners examine how atoms are organized, how mass and energy interact, and why certain nuclei are stable while others undergo radioactive decay. The course introduces particulate and electromagnetic radiation, common decay modes (alpha, beta-minus, beta-plus, electron capture, gamma decay, and internal conversion), and the principles behind characteristic and Auger radiation. It concludes with nuclear nomenclature—such as isotopes, isobars, isotones, and isomers—and highlights essential applications in medical imaging and radiation therapy. This course equips learners with the conceptual groundwork needed for safe and effective practice in medical physics.
Content Areas (Codes): The following Content Areas will be printed on the certificate for this course:
- Physics and Basic Science
Learning Objectives:
- Explain atomic structure and the fundamental principles governing electron configuration and energy.
- Explain nuclear energy levels.
- Distinguish among major types of radiation and radioactive decay processes.
- Apply nuclear nomenclature and decay concepts to real-world medical physics applications.
This non-CME enduring material is estimated to take 15 minutes to complete.
Start Date: 2/25/2026
Online Expiration Date: 2/24/2029
Faculty:
- Lawrence P. Davis, MD, FACR
- William J. O’Connell, DrPH, DABR
- Peter Lee, MD
- Justin Ngeow, MD
- Daniel Ohngemach, MD
- Amanda Weiss, MD
Price:
Non-Member Rate: $0.00
Member Rate: $0.00
Refund / Exchange Policy:
RSNA will not issue any refunds or exchanges for online only versions of educational products or activities purchased online. Please review the entire product or activity description prior to purchase.
RSNA Disclaimer:
The opinions or views expressed in this activity are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, recommendations or endorsement of the RSNA. Participants should critically appraise the information presented and are encouraged to consult appropriate resources for information surrounding any product or device mentioned. Information presented, as well as publications, technologies, products and/or services discussed, are intended to inform the learner about the knowledge, techniques, and experiences of RSNA faculty who are willing to share such information with colleagues. The RSNA disclaims any and all liability for damages to any individual user for all claims which may result from the use of said information, publications, technologies, products and/or services, and events.