Nuclear Equations

Front

What is a nuclear equation?

Back

A nuclear equation represents a nuclear reaction, showing the initial and final nuclei involved, along with any emitted particles.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

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

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a type of nuclear particle consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, identical to a helium nucleus.

Front

How is beta decay represented in a nuclear equation?

Back

Beta decay is represented by the emission of a beta particle, typically written as ⁰_-1e.

Front

What happens to the atomic number during beta decay?

Back

During beta decay, the atomic number increases by 1.

Front

What is the effect of alpha decay on the atomic number?

Back

Alpha decay decreases the atomic number by 2.

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay is the release of gamma radiation from a nucleus, which does not change the atomic number or mass number.

Front

How is an alpha particle written in a nuclear equation?

Back

An alpha particle is written as ⁴₂He.

Front

What is a positron?

Back

A positron is the antimatter counterpart of an electron, with the same mass but a positive charge.

Front

What is the mass number of a beta particle?

Back

The mass number of a beta particle is 0.