Fission, Fusion, Decay

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy.

Front

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 in the process.

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

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

Front

What are the three main types of radioactive decay?

Back

The three main types of radioactive decay are alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay.

Front

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.

Front

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.

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 photons, from an excited nucleus.

Front

What is a half-life?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

Where does nuclear fusion occur naturally?

Back

Nuclear fusion occurs naturally in stars, including our sun.

Front

How do nuclear power plants generate energy?

Back

Nuclear power plants generate energy primarily through the process of nuclear fission.