Atomic and Nuclear Physics - Class XII

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and definitions from the Atomic and Nuclear Physics unit.

Atomic Number

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

Mass Number

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus.

Isotopes

Atoms of the same element with the same atomic number but different mass numbers.

Radioactivity

The process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.

Alpha Particle

A type of radiation consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Beta Particle

A high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during radioactive decay.

Gamma Radiation

High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by certain radioactive materials.

Nuclear Fission

The process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

Nuclear Fusion

The process of merging two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Half-Life

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.