Radioactive Decay

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What is radioactive decay?

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

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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 the conversion of a neutron into a proton or vice versa.

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What is alpha decay?

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Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, resulting in a new element with a lower atomic number.

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What is a helium nucleus also known as?

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A helium nucleus is also known as an alpha particle.

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What is nuclear fusion?

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Nuclear fusion is the process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a significant amount of energy.

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What is nuclear fission?

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Nuclear fission is the process in which a heavy atomic nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy.

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What are the products of beta decay for the equation 6^14C?

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The products of beta decay for the equation 6^14C are 7^14N and a beta particle (electron).

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What are the products of alpha decay for the equation 85^209At?

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The products of alpha decay for the equation 85^209At are 83^205Bi and an alpha particle (helium nucleus).

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What is the role of neutrons in a nucleus?

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Neutrons help stabilize the nucleus by offsetting the repulsive forces between protons, which are positively charged.

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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 undergoes radioactive decay.