Nuclear Equations

Front

What is a nuclear equation?

Back

A nuclear equation represents a nuclear reaction, showing the transformation of one element into another, including the particles involved.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus, and is emitted during alpha decay.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during beta decay.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted from a radioactive nucleus, carrying no mass or charge.

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

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

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle is emitted, transforming a neutron into a proton or vice versa.

Front

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

Back

The atomic number indicates the number of protons in an atom, determining the element's identity and its position in the periodic table.

Front

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

Back

The type of decay can be identified by analyzing the particles emitted and the changes in atomic and mass numbers.

Front

What is the mass number?

Back

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus.

Front

What happens to the atomic number during alpha decay?

Back

During alpha decay, the atomic number decreases by 2.