Nuclear Science Flashcard

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay that involves the emission of a helium nucleus.

Front

What is a common fuel used in nuclear fission reactors?

Back

Uranium-235 is a common fuel used in nuclear fission reactors.

Front

Define nuclear fission.

Back

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei.

Front

What particle is emitted during beta decay?

Back

A beta particle is emitted during beta decay.

Front

What is the main safety concern with nuclear fission reactors?

Back

The main safety concern is the potential for a runaway reaction leading to an explosion.

Front

What is a neutron?

Back

A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric charge.

Front

What is a proton?

Back

A proton is a positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Front

What is a helium nucleus?

Back

A helium nucleus, also known as an alpha particle, consists of two protons and two neutrons.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

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

Front

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

Back

A runaway reaction occurs when the fission process becomes uncontrollable, potentially leading to an explosion.