Nuclear Review

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, resulting in a new element.

Front

What are alpha particles?

Back

Particles emitted during alpha decay, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Front

Rank the following in order of increasing ability to penetrate matter: alpha, beta, gamma.

Back

Alpha, beta, gamma.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus.

Front

What are beta particles?

Back

High-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted during beta decay.

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay that involves the emission of gamma rays, which are high-energy electromagnetic waves.

Front

What are gamma rays?

Back

Electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy, emitted during gamma decay.

Front

Define half-life.

Back

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

Front

If the half-life of strontium-90 is 25 years, how much will remain after 100 years from an initial amount of 4.0 g?

Back

0.25 g.

Front

What is the equation for beta decay of Carbon-14?

Back

14_6C → 14_7N + 0_-1e.