Understanding Atoms and Radioactivity

A set of vocabulary flashcards to help review key concepts related to atomic structure and radioactivity from the lecture notes.

Plum Pudding Model

An early model of atomic structure proposed by J.J. Thomson, depicting electrons embedded within a positively charged sphere.

Atoms

The smallest component of matter, consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Scientific Models

Conceptual frameworks developed by scientists to explain observations and make predictions based on experimental data.

Radioactivity

The process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.

Elements, Compounds, Mixtures

Three categories of substances; elements consist of one type of atom, compounds consist of two or more different atoms chemically bonded, and mixtures contain two or more substances that are not chemically bonded.

Molecule

A group of two or more atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound.

Isotopes

Different forms of the same element that contain the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Nucleus

The central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons, and accounting for most of the atom's mass.

Alpha Radiation

A type of radiation that consists of helium nuclei emitted from a radioactive source.

Beta Radiation

A form of radiation that consists of high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei.

Gamma Radiation

High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by radioactive substances, capable of penetrating most materials.