nuclear physics flahscards

What is nuclear physics?

Nuclear physics is the branch of physics that deals with the structure and behavior of atomic nuclei.

What is an atom?

An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.

What particles are found in the nucleus?

The nucleus contains protons and neutrons.

What is a proton?

A proton is a positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

What is a neutron?

A neutron is a neutral particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

What is atomic number?

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

What is mass number?

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom.

What is an isotope?

Isotopes are variations of an element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

What is radioactive decay?

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

What are alpha particles?

Alpha particles consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons and are emitted during radioactive decay.

What are beta particles?

Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei.

What are gamma rays?

Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation of high frequency and energy emitted from radioactive materials.

What is half-life?

Half-life is the time taken for half the quantity of a radioactive substance to decay.

What is fission?

Fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei, releasing energy.

What is fusion?

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

What is a chain reaction?

A chain reaction is a series of reactions where a reactive product or by-product causes additional reactions to occur.

What is the role of a neutron in fission?

A neutron initiates fission by colliding with a heavy nucleus, causing it to split.

What is a control rod?

Control rods are used in nuclear reactors to absorb neutrons and regulate the fission process.

What is nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear reactions, primarily fission or fusion.

What is the significance of the strong nuclear force?

The strong nuclear force is the fundamental force that holds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus.