Nuclear Decay Practice Problems

Front

What is nuclear decay?

Back

Nuclear 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.

Front

What are the three main types of nuclear radiation?

Back

The three main types of nuclear radiation are alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Front

Define 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.

Front

Define 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.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted from a radioactive nucleus, characterized by high energy and no mass.

Front

How does alpha decay affect atomic mass and atomic number?

Back

In alpha decay, the atomic mass decreases by 4 and the atomic number decreases by 2.

Front

How does beta decay affect atomic mass and atomic number?

Back

In beta decay, the atomic mass remains the same, but the atomic number increases by 1.

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 significance of gamma rays in nuclear reactions?

Back

Gamma rays are often emitted alongside alpha or beta particles during nuclear decay, and they can penetrate materials, causing damage to living tissues.

Front

What is the equation for the beta decay of carbon-14?

Back

The equation is 14_6C → 14_7N + 0_-1e.