Nuclear Equations Flashcard

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable nucleus releases gamma radiation without changing its atomic or mass numbers.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What happens to the atomic and mass numbers during gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay does not change the atomic or mass numbers.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What type of decay is characterized by the emission of an alpha particle?

Back

Alpha decay is characterized by the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

Which type of radiation has the lowest penetrating power?

Back

Alpha radiation has the lowest penetrating power and can be stopped by a piece of paper or clothing.

Front

What is the symbol for alpha radiation?

Back

The symbol for alpha radiation is α.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What type of particle is emitted when Uranium-238 decays into Thorium-234?

Back

An alpha particle is emitted when Uranium-238 decays into Thorium-234.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What is the difference between alpha and beta decay?

Back

Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, while beta decay involves the emission of a beta particle (an electron or positron).

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

How can you identify alpha decay in a nuclear equation?

Back

In a nuclear equation, alpha decay is identified by a decrease of 2 in the atomic number and a decrease of 4 in the mass number.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What is the penetrating power of beta particles compared to alpha particles?

Back

Beta particles have a higher penetrating power than alpha particles and can penetrate through paper but are stopped by aluminum.

Front

What type of radiation is emitted during beta decay?

Back

During beta decay, a beta particle (electron or positron) is emitted.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8