Decay Equations, Fission, Fusion

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What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons), resulting in a new element with a lower atomic number.

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What is beta decay?

Back

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus, transforming a neutron into a proton or vice versa.

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What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy, often used in nuclear power plants.

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What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy, as seen in stars like the sun.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, identical to a helium nucleus, and is emitted during alpha decay.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of neutrons in nuclear reactions?

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Neutrons play a crucial role in stabilizing the nucleus and can initiate fission reactions by colliding with heavy nuclei.

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What is the difference between fission and fusion?

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Fission involves splitting heavy nuclei into smaller ones, while fusion involves combining light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

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What is a positron?

Back

A positron is the antimatter counterpart of an electron, with the same mass but a positive charge, emitted during certain types of beta decay.

Front

What is the significance of the atomic number in decay equations?

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The atomic number indicates the number of protons in an atom, determining the element's identity and how it changes during decay.