nuclear chem exam

nuclear decay

process in which a unstable atomic nucleus transfers into a more stable one by emitting radiation

1. Explain how a nuclear chain reaction occurs with a drawing or words.

nucleus splits in two

form 2 new elements

purpose of neutrons in nucleus

Protons repel other protons bc theyre both positively charged.

Neutrons hold the protons together like glue.

Without the neutrons the nucleus becomes unstable since protons are trying to get away fom each other

how to find which element is more unstable

the element with the least amount of neutrons is the most unstable

Alpha decay symbol

Beta decay symbol

Positron emission

Electron capture

Gamma emission symbol

Adding protons symbol

When using electron capture

The sides switch

Atomic mass formula

(mass #1 x abundance #1)+(mass#2 x abundance #2)

Do nuclear reactions follow the law of conservation of water

No,as then they would have to convert mass to energy

Name one specific imaging tool and what kind of nuclear decay is used

Scintgraphy:uses gamma radiation to make 2d images