Nuclear Physics Concepts

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Alpha

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A type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and transforms into a different element.

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Decay

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The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by radiation.

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Fusion

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A nuclear reaction in which atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

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Mass Number

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

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Nucleus

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The positively charged central core of an atom, consisting of protons and neutrons.

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Radioactivity

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The emission of ionizing radiation or particles caused by the spontaneous disintegration of atomic nuclei.

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Unstable

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Refers to an atomic nucleus that is likely to undergo radioactive decay.

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Atomic Number

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The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, determining the chemical properties of an element.

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Emission

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The process of giving off radiation, such as alpha, beta, or gamma rays, from a radioactive substance.

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Gamma

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A type of electromagnetic radiation of high energy and short wavelength, emitted by the nuclei of radioactive atoms.