Nuclear Reactions

Front

What is a nuclear reaction?

Back

A process in which the structure of the nucleus of an atom changes, resulting in the release or absorption of energy.

Front

What are the three main types of nuclear radiation?

Back

Alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

A type of nuclear radiation consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during radioactive decay.

Front

What is a gamma ray?

Back

A form of electromagnetic radiation with no mass and no charge, emitted from a nucleus.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

The process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

The process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What charge do alpha particles carry?

Back

+2 charge.

Front

What charge do beta particles carry?

Back

-1 charge (for electrons) or +1 charge (for positrons).

Front

What charge do gamma rays carry?

Back

0 charge.