Nuclear Chemistry Review

Front

What is the nucleus made of?

Back

Protons and Neutrons

Front

What is the half-life of iodine-131?

Back

8 days

Front

Why are nuclear power plants used if they produce large amounts of toxic waste?

Back

They can convert a small mass into a lot of energy.

Front

What is the charge of a beta particle?

Back

-1

Front

What does it mean that P-32 has a half-life of 14 days?

Back

After 14 days 50% of the radioactive substance decays.

Front

Define radioactivity.

Back

The process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What is a radioactive isotope?

Back

An isotope that is unstable and can decay, emitting radiation.

Front

Explain the concept of half-life.

Back

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

The process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

The process of combining light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.