Nuclear Chemistry Review

Front

What do two different isotopes of an atom have in common?

Back

They have the same number of protons.

Front

If a sulfur atom has 16 protons, 16 electrons, and 16 neutrons, what is its atomic mass?

Back

32 (Atomic mass = protons + neutrons = 16 + 16)

Front

What is the term for the time needed for half of a radioactive sample to decay?

Back

Half-life.

Front

Which type of nuclear radiation is emitted when an electron is released?

Back

Beta radiation.

Front

What is the notation for the isotope of Cadmium with a mass number of 115?

Back

Cd-115.

Front

Define 'isotope'.

Back

Isotopes are variants of a particular chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Front

What is the difference between atomic mass and atomic weight?

Back

Atomic mass is the mass of a specific isotope, while atomic weight is the weighted average of all isotopes of an element.

Front

What is a common use of radioactive isotopes in medicine?

Back

They are used in imaging and treatment, such as in PET scans and cancer therapy.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the process of combining light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.