UPCAT CHEM - NUCLEAR CHEMISTRY

Nuclear Decay

A process where unstable (radioactive) atoms undergo a decrease in nuclear particles to transform into a more stable atom.

Nuclear Fission

The breaking apart of a large nucleus into two or more smaller elements when hit by a high-energy particle. Releases energy and is the basis of nuclear power plants.

Nuclear Fusion

The merging of smaller nuclei to form a bigger atom. Requires extreme energy to induce, produces more energy than fission, and is the basis of energy in the Sun.

Alpha (α) Radiation / Decay

Emits an alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons). Mass number decreases by 4, and atomic number decreases by 2.

Beta (β-) Radiation / Decay

Emits an electron when a neutron converts into a proton. Mass number is unchanged, and atomic number increases by 1.

Gamma (γ) Radiation

Emits high-energy photons from an excited nuclear state. Both mass number and atomic number remain unchanged.

Positron Emission (β+ Decay)

Emits a massless positive particle when a proton converts into a neutron. Mass number is unchanged, and atomic number decreases by 1.

Electron Capture

An electron is absorbed by the nucleus, converting a proton into a neutron. Mass number is unchanged, and atomic number decreases by 1.

Half-Life (T1/2)

The amount of time it takes for a radioactive material to decay until exactly half of the original amount is left.