Nuclear Reactions, Decay, and Half-Life

Front

What is a nuclear reaction?

Back

A process in which the structure of the nucleus of an atom changes, resulting in the release or absorption of energy.

Front

Define fission.

Back

The splitting of a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy.

Front

Define fusion.

Back

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

Front

What is half-life?

Back

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

Front

What is a decay particle?

Back

A particle emitted during the decay of a radioactive atom, such as alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

A type of radiation consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during radioactive decay.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy emitted during radioactive decay.

Front

What is the difference between fission and fusion?

Back

Fission is the splitting of a nucleus, while fusion is the combining of nuclei.

Front

What is the significance of the mass-energy equivalence principle in nuclear reactions?

Back

It states that mass can be converted into energy, as described by the equation E=mc^2.