Nuclear Reactions Flashcards

Flashcards about Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear Reactions

Involve changes in the nucleus of the atom.

Radioactivity

Property of unstable isotopes with disintegrating nuclei that emit radiation in the form of particles or energy traveling in the form of photons.

Alpha Emission

Unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, losing 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Beta Emission

Neutron-to-proton ratio is too large, resulting in the nucleus gaining 1 proton with no mass change.

Gamma Emission

Excited nucleus emits gamma radiation with no change in mass or atomic number.

Half-life

Time required for 1/2 of a radioactive sample to decay.

Nuclear Fission

More massive nuclei can gain stability by splitting into smaller nuclei with the release of energy.

Nuclear Power Plants

Rely on controlled fission chain reactions with fuel rods and control rods.