Chemistry studying for Final

What are the three types of nuclear radiation in increasing order of penetrating power?

Alpha rays, beta rays, gamma rays.

What is an alpha particle?

A helium nucleus with two protons and two neutrons.

What happens during fission?

One neutron hits a nucleus causing it to split into two smaller, lighter nuclei.

What is the symbol for gamma radiation?

The symbol for gamma radiation is 1^0 e.

How are gamma elements represented on a graph?

Gamma elements are represented with negative numbers.

How can you identify stable and unstable elements on a graph?

Stable elements in the red wave are not radioactive, while unstable elements are in the Unstable Region.

What does the equation for U-238 alpha decay look like?

U-238 (92 protons, mass 238) decays to Th (90 protons, mass 234) plus an alpha particle (2 protons, mass 4).

What particle is emitted during beta decay?

A beta particle, which is a negatively charged particle emitted at high speed.

What is the purpose of the half-life equation?

To determine the time required for half of a radioactive substance to decay.

What are isotopes?

Heavier or lighter versions of the same elemental atom due to a different number of neutrons.

What is the strong nuclear force?

The force that holds protons and neutrons together inside the nucleus.

What is an example of a fission nuclear reaction?

The atomic bomb is an example of a fission nuclear reaction.

How does a beta particle differ from an alpha particle?

A beta particle has a mass of 0 and is emitted from the nucleus at high speed, while an alpha particle has a mass of 4.

What role do neutrons play in the nucleus?

Neutrons add a net attractive force, helping to hold the protons and neutrons together.

What is radioactive decay?

The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

What is an example of nuclear fusion?

A reaction that occurs in the sun and the stars.

How many electrons can fit into one 's' orbital?

No more than 2 electrons can fit into one 's' shape.

What is the significance of the numbers on the periodic table?

They indicate the number of protons, mass, and electrons in each element.

Are all forms of radioactivity dangerous to humans?

No, not all radioactivity is dangerous; small doses are received naturally every day without harm.

How does beta radioactive decay occur?

It originates from inside the nucleus or is influenced by electrons outside the nucleus.

What is the implication of having more than 83 protons in an atom's nucleus?

The atom is naturally radioactive.

What is the formula to determine half-life based on the original amount of substance?

Substitute values into the half-life equation: remaining amount = original amount (1/2)^(t/half-life).