Nuclear Equations Flashcard

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, resulting in a new element with a lower atomic number.

Front

What does the alpha decay of Radium-226 (^{226}_{88}Ra) produce?

Back

Alpha decay of Radium-226 produces Radon-222 (^{222}_{86}Rn).

Front

What is beta radiation?

Back

Beta radiation is the emission of beta particles, which are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei.

Front

What is the difference between alpha and beta radiation?

Back

Alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei (2 protons and 2 neutrons), while beta radiation consists of electrons or positrons emitted from the nucleus.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy, emitted from the nucleus during radioactive decay.

Front

What is the symbol for alpha radiation?

Back

The symbol for alpha radiation is α.

Front

What is the symbol for beta radiation?

Back

The symbol for beta radiation is β.

Front

What is the symbol for gamma radiation?

Back

The symbol for gamma radiation is γ.

Front

What is the result of beta decay for Carbon-14 (^{14}_{6}C)?

Back

The beta decay of Carbon-14 results in Nitrogen-14 (^{14}_{7}N) and an emitted electron (^{0}_{-1}e).

Front

What type of particle is emitted during alpha decay?

Back

An alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.