Nuclear Chemistry

These flashcards cover key concepts related to nuclear chemistry, including types of radiation, processes, units of measurement, and medical applications.

Radioisotope

An unstable nucleus that emits radiation and can include one or more isotopes of an element.

Alpha particle (α)

A particle identical to a helium nucleus with 2 protons and 2 neutrons, a mass number of 4, and a charge of 2+.

Beta particle (β)

A high-energy electron with a mass number of 0 and a charge of 1−, formed when a neutron changes into a proton and an electron.

Positron (β+)

A particle with a mass number of 0 and a charge of 1+, formed when a proton changes into a neutron and a positron.

Gamma ray (γ)

High-energy radiation with a mass number of 0 and a charge of 0, emitted from an unstable nucleus.

Radioactive decay

A process in which an unstable nucleus spontaneously breaks down by emitting radiation.

Half-life

The time for the radiation level (activity) of a radioisotope to decrease to one-half of its original value.

Geiger Counter

An instrument that detects beta and gamma radiation by using ions produced by radiation to create an electrical current.

Curie (Ci)

A unit of radiation activity, equal to 3.7 × 10^10 disintegrations per second.

Becquerel (Bq)

The SI unit of radiation activity, which is equal to one disintegration per second.

Radiation sickness

Illness caused by exposure to high doses of radiation, leading to symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

Nuclear fission

A process where a large nucleus splits into smaller nuclei and releases large amounts of energy.

Nuclear fusion

The process of combining small nuclei into larger nuclei, releasing large amounts of energy.

Carbon dating

A technique used to determine the age of ancient objects by measuring the amount of carbon-14 present.

Dosimeters

Devices worn by individuals in radiation laboratories to measure the amount of radiation exposure.