Nuclear & Radioactivity Review

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, resulting in a new element with a mass number reduced by 4 and an atomic number reduced by 2.

Front

How many protons does an atom with a mass number of 25 and an atomic number of 12 have?

Back

An atom with a mass number of 25 and an atomic number of 12 has 12 protons.

Front

What type of nuclear reaction was used in the bombs dropped over Japan in WWII?

Back

The bombs dropped over Japan in WWII used nuclear fission, a reaction where the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy.

Front

What occurs during nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion occurs when two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process.

Front

Which type of radiation carries no charge?

Back

Gamma radiation carries no charge; it is a form of electromagnetic radiation.

Front

What is the difference between fission and fusion?

Back

Fission is the splitting of a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, while fusion is the combining of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

What is a neutron?

Back

A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric charge and a mass slightly greater than that of a proton.

Front

What is the role of protons in an atom?

Back

Protons determine the atomic number of an element and contribute to the positive charge of the nucleus.

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation, resulting in the transformation of the element.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during radioactive decay.