Nuclear Physics - Unit 3
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33 Terms
Keyword
Definition
Atom
The smallest unit of an element consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.
Nucleus
The central part of an atom containing protons and neutrons.
Proton
A positively charged particle in the nucleus.
Neutron
A neutral particle in the nucleus.
Electron
A negatively charged particle orbiting the nucleus.
Relative charges
Proton is +1 neutron is 0 electron is -1.
Relative masses
Protons and neutrons have mass 1 electrons have very small mass.
Atomic number
The number of protons in the nucleus.
Mass number
The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
Isotopes
Atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different neutrons.
Plum pudding model
A model where electrons are embedded in a positive sphere.
Rutherford experiment
Alpha particles fired at gold foil showing atom is mostly empty space.
Rutherford conclusion
Atoms have a small dense positively charged nucleus.
Nuclear model
A model with a central nucleus and orbiting electrons.
Radioactivity
The spontaneous emission of radiation from unstable nuclei.
Alpha radiation
Helium nuclei emitted from the nucleus.
Beta radiation
High speed electrons emitted from the nucleus.
Gamma radiation
High energy electromagnetic radiation.
Radiation properties
Alpha is most ionising beta is moderate gamma is least ionising but most penetrating.
Radiation absorption
Alpha stopped by paper beta by aluminium gamma by thick lead.
Half life
The time taken for half of radioactive nuclei to decay.
Background radiation
Radiation from natural and artificial sources.
Nuclear fission
The splitting of a large nucleus releasing energy and neutrons.
Chain reaction
A self sustaining series of fission reactions.
Nuclear power
Electricity generation using controlled fission.
Fission advantages
High energy output.
Fission disadvantages
Produces radioactive waste.
Nuclear fusion
The joining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
Fusion energy
Releases large amounts of energy.
Fusion conditions
Requires extremely high temperature and pressure.
Fusion in stars
Fusion is the process that powers stars including the Sun.
Mass energy conversion
A small amount of mass is converted into energy during nuclear reactions.
