Nuclear Physics Quiz Prep

Radioactive materials have unstable...

• electrons
• protons
• nuclei
• neutrons

The type of radioactive particle that can be stopped by a sheet of paper is the ____.

• alpha particle
• beta particle
• gamma ray
• uranium

A helium nucleus with two protons and two neutrons is called a(n) ____.  

• alpha particle
• electroscope
• beta particle
• gamma ray

Negatively charged particles emitted from a nucleus at a high speed are ____.  

• alpha particle
• gamma rays
• beta particles
• X rays

The three types of nuclear radiation in increasing order of penetrating power are ____.  

•   alpha, beta, gamma 
• X ray, beta, gamma
• alpha, gamma, beta 
• X ray, gamma, beta 

Which risk is associated with using nuclear fission to produce energy in a power plant?

• depletion of hydrocarbons

• depletion of atmospheric oxygen

• exposure of workers to radiation

• exposure of workers to sulfur dioxide

What is a problem commonly associated with nuclear power facilities?

• A small quantity of energy is produced.

• Reaction products contribute to acid rain

• It is impossible to control nuclear fission.

• It is difficult to dispose of wastes.

The main function of a coolant in a nuclear fission reactor is to

• slow down the speed of the neutrons

• absorb energy produced by the reaction

• shield the wall of the reactor from radiation damage

• adjust the number of neutrons available for reaction

The operation of a commercial nuclear reactor requires an isotope that will undergo

• fission and a controlled chain reaction

• fission and an uncontrolled chain reaction

• fusion and a controlled chain reaction

• fusion and an uncontrolled chain reaction

Which is a benefit of using nuclear power?

• Makes us less reliant on fossil fuels
• Exposes workers to hazards in nuclear facilities
• Generates radioactive nuclear waste
• Causes thermal pollution to water systems