Nuclear Chemistry

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What is nuclear chemistry?

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Nuclear chemistry is the study of the chemical and physical properties of elements as influenced by changes in the structure of the nucleus. It includes the study of radioactivity, nuclear processes, and properties of radionuclides.

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What is an alpha particle?

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An alpha particle is a type of nuclear radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons, identical to a helium nucleus. It is emitted during alpha decay.

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What is beta decay?

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Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus, resulting in a change of one element into another.

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What is gamma radiation?

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Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation of high energy and short wavelength, emitted from the nucleus during radioactive decay.

Front

Define half-life in nuclear chemistry.

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Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay into a different element or isotope.

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What is the decay constant?

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The decay constant is a probability rate at which a particular radioactive isotope will decay, typically denoted by the symbol λ (lambda).

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What is fission?

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Fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy.

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What is fusion?

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Fusion is a nuclear reaction in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process.

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What is a radioactive isotope?

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A radioactive isotope is an isotope of an element that has an unstable nucleus and emits radiation as it decays to a more stable form.

Front

What is the difference between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation?

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Alpha radiation consists of heavy particles (helium nuclei), beta radiation consists of electrons or positrons, and gamma radiation consists of high-energy photons.