P.S. ch10 vocab nuclear

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Fission

Back

The splitting of an atomic nucleus to release energy.

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Fusion

Back

Creation of energy by joining the nuclei of two hydrogen atoms to form helium.

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Chain reaction

Back

Ongoing series of fission reactions.

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Alpha decay

Back

A nuclear reaction in which an atom emits an alpha particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons. This increases the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4.

Front

Alpha particle

Back

A type of nuclear radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons.

Front

Alpha decay example

Back

238/92 U -> 234/90 Th + 4/2 He

Front

Beta decay

Back

Radioactive decay in which an electron is emitted.

Front

Beta particle

Back

A high-speed electron with a 1- charge that is emitted during radioactive decay.

Front

Beta decay equation

Back

14/6C ---> 14/7N + 0/-1e

Front

Beta decay/emission

Back

0/-1 e