CP-Unit 3 Radioactivity

Front

What are radioactive isotopes?

Back

Isotopes with an unstable atomic nucleus.

Front

What type of nuclear reaction powers the sun?

Back

Nuclear fusion.

Front

What is a major benefit of using nuclear energy?

Back

It produces a large amount of energy from a small amount of fuel.

Front

What part of an atom makes it radioactive?

Back

Nucleus.

Front

How many half-lives have passed if a sample is reduced to 1/8 of its original amount?

Back

3 half-lives.

Front

Define nuclear fusion.

Back

A nuclear reaction where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

A nuclear reaction where a heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, releasing energy.

Front

What is a half-life?

Back

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in the nucleus?

Back

Neutrons help stabilize the nucleus and prevent it from being repelled by protons.

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

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