Unit 8 Review - Nuclear Chemistry

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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, resulting in the transformation of a neutron into a proton or vice versa.

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What is a half-life?

Back

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

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How do you calculate the remaining amount of a radioactive substance after a certain time?

Back

Use the formula: Remaining amount = Initial amount × (1/2)^(time elapsed / half-life).

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 with a lower atomic number.

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

Back

The atomic number determines the identity of an element; during nuclear reactions, changes in the atomic number indicate the formation of a different element.

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What is the role of isotopes in nuclear chemistry?

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Isotopes are variants of a chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, affecting their stability and radioactive properties.

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What is technetium-99 used for in medicine?

Back

Technetium-99 is commonly used in medical imaging and diagnostics, particularly in nuclear medicine for imaging organs.

Front

What happens to the mass number during alpha decay?

Back

During alpha decay, the mass number decreases by 4 because an alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted.

Front

What is a nuclear equation?

Back

A nuclear equation represents a nuclear reaction, showing the initial and final nuclei, along with any emitted particles.

Front

How do you identify the type of decay from a nuclear equation?

Back

Identify the emitted particle (alpha, beta, or gamma) and the changes in atomic and mass numbers to determine the type of decay.