Atomic Structure

Front

What is the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of an atom during radioactive decay.

Front

What is a nuclear equation?

Back

A nuclear equation shows the transformation of one element into another through radioactive decay, including the particles emitted.

Front

What is the significance of uranium-238 in nuclear reactions?

Back

Uranium-238 is a common isotope used in nuclear reactors and can undergo alpha decay to form thorium-234.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a type of particle consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Front

What happens during alpha decay?

Back

During alpha decay, an atomic nucleus loses an alpha particle, resulting in a new element with a lower atomic number.

Front

What is the relationship between atomic number and element identity?

Back

The atomic number uniquely identifies an element; changing the number of protons changes the element.

Front

How do you identify the type of decay from a nuclear equation?

Back

You can identify the type of decay by analyzing the particles emitted and the changes in atomic and mass numbers.