Fundamentals of Radiation & Radiation Safety

A set of vocabulary flashcards derived from fundamental concepts in radiological physics and atomic structure.

Atom

The fundamental building block of matter, which cannot be split according to ancient Greek theory.

Atomic Theory

A theory proposing that all elements are composed of tiny indestructible particles called atoms.

Electron

A subatomic particle with a negative charge that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

Proton

A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutron

A subatomic particle with no charge, which exists in the nucleus of an atom and helps stabilize it.

Binding Energy

The energy required to remove an electron from an atom or the energy needed to keep an atomic nucleus intact.

Isotope

Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Ionic Bonding

The chemical bond formed between two oppositely charged ions through the transfer of electrons.

Covalent Bonding

The bond formed when atoms share electrons to achieve full outer electron shells.

Excitation

The process where an electron absorbs energy and moves to a higher energy level.

Ionization

The process of removing an electron from an atom, resulting in a net positive charge.

Quantum Mechanics

A branch of physics that describes the behavior of subatomic particles, including electrons.

Electron Configuration

The arrangement of electrons in an atom's shells and subshells.

Molecular Compound

A chemical compound made up of atoms from two or more different elements bonded together.

Subatomic Particles

Particles that are smaller than an atom, including protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Atomic Number (Z)

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element.

Mass Number (A)

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

Valency

The combining power of an element, determined by the number of electrons in its outer shell.

Periodic Table

A table that organizes all known elements based on their atomic number and electronic configuration.

Crystalline Compounds

Solids composed of atoms arranged in a highly ordered structure.