Nuclear Decay Problems

Front

What is the symbol for an alpha particle?

Back

⁴₂He

Front

What type of decay does the equation ¹⁴₆C --> ¹⁴₇N + ⁰_-1e represent?

Back

Beta decay

Front

In the equation ₆¹⁴C = ___ + _-1⁰e, what is the missing product?

Back

₇¹⁴N

Front

What type of radiation requires thick layers of concrete or lead to be stopped?

Back

Gamma radiation

Front

In the equation ₂₇⁶⁰Co = ___ + _-1⁰e, what is the missing product?

Back

₂₈⁶⁰Ni

Front

What is the definition of radioactive decay?

Back

The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What are the three main types of radioactive decay?

Back

Alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay.

Front

What is an alpha particle composed of?

Back

Two protons and two neutrons (the same as a helium nucleus).

Front

What is the charge of a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle can be either negatively charged (beta-minus) or positively charged (beta-plus).

Front

What is the significance of half-life in nuclear decay?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.