Nuclear Science Flashcard

Front

What type of radioactive decay involves the emission of a helium nucleus?

Back

Alpha decay.

Front

What is a chain reaction in the context of nuclear fission?

Back

A reaction where the product of one reaction initiates further reactions.

Front

What is the primary effect of atomic bombs?

Back

Massive release of energy and destruction.

Front

What is the main safety concern with nuclear fission reactors?

Back

The potential for a runaway reaction leading to an explosion.

Front

What conditions are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

Back

High temperature and high pressure.

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What are the three main types of radioactive decay?

Back

Alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fission is the splitting of a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, while nuclear fusion is the combining of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

What is the role of a moderator in a nuclear reactor?

Back

To slow down neutrons to sustain the nuclear chain reaction.

Front

What is the significance of the critical mass in nuclear fission?

Back

It is the minimum amount of fissile material needed to maintain a nuclear chain reaction.