Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

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

Front

What is the decay equation for U-238?

Back

The decay equation for U-238 is: U-238 -> Th-234 + He-4 (alpha particle).

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.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus.

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay that involves the emission of gamma rays, which are high-energy electromagnetic waves.

Front

Rank the following types of radiation in order of increasing strength: Alpha, Beta, Gamma.

Back

Alpha < Beta < Gamma.

Front

What is the relationship between protons and neutrons in a stable nucleus?

Back

As the number of protons increases, more neutrons are needed to keep the nucleus stable.

Front

What is the significance of the atomic number in nuclear reactions?

Back

The atomic number determines the number of protons in the nucleus and defines the element; it must be conserved in nuclear reactions.

Front

What is the mass number?

Back

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus.

Front

What is a nuclear equation?

Back

A nuclear equation shows the reactants and products in a nuclear reaction, including the particles involved.