Nuclear Energy Vocabulary

Front

What is a particle with a +1e charge and a mass the same as an electron, also known as the antiparticle of the electron?

Back

Positron

Front

What is the process by which a nucleus splits into two or more fragments, releasing neutrons and energy?

Back

Fission

Front

What is the term for the nuclear radiation that arises naturally from cosmic rays and from radioactive isotopes in the soil and air?

Back

Background radiation

Front

What is the high-energy photon emitted by a nucleus during fission and radioactive decay?

Back

Gamma ray

Front

What is the force that holds the nucleus together?

Back

Strong nuclear force

Front

What is the term for the energy released during nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear energy

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fission is the splitting of a nucleus, while nuclear fusion is the combining of two nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in a nuclear reaction?

Back

Neutrons can initiate fission reactions and help stabilize the nucleus.

Front

What is the significance of the strong nuclear force in atomic structure?

Back

The strong nuclear force binds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus, overcoming the repulsive electromagnetic force between protons.

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.