Nuclear Chemistry Flashcards

Flashcards on Nuclear Chemistry

Nuclear Chemistry

The study of reactions caused by a change in the nucleus of an atom.

Radioactive Element

An element with an unstable nucleus that spontaneously decays by emitting particles and energy.

Stable Nucleus

A nucleus that is not radioactive and does not emit radiation; it has a stable proton to neutron ratio.

Transmutation

The process where one element is changed into another element through nuclear decay.

Alpha Emission

This emission is the most massive and most charged. It can be stopped by thin paper or a few centimeters of air.

Beta Emission

This emission is charged and can travel through paper, but is stopped by aluminum.

Gamma Emission

This emission has no charge and no mass. It can travel through fairly thick lead and is most dangerous outside of the body.

Alpha Particle (α)

A helium nucleus emitted during radioactive decay; has a mass of 4 and a charge of +2; can be stopped by paper.

Beta Particle (β-)

An electron emitted during radioactive decay; has negligible mass and a charge of -1; can be stopped by metal foils.

Gamma Radiation (γ)

High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted during radioactive decay; has no mass and no charge; requires thick lead or reinforced concrete for shielding.

Natural Transmutation

A decay reaction where an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, beta particle, or positron.