ACP Unit 3.1 Nuclear

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

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

Front

What happens to an isotope when it releases an alpha particle?

Back

The atomic number decreases by 2 and the mass number decreases by 4, resulting in a new element.

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 nucleus is produced from the beta decay of ¹⁴₆C?

Back

¹⁴₇N is produced.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is the splitting of a heavy atomic nucleus into two lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy.

Front

What is the primary process that powers the sun?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the primary process that powers the sun, where hydrogen atoms fuse to form helium.

Front

What are fission reactions used for?

Back

Fission reactions are used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.

Front

What is the difference between fission and fusion?

Back

Fission splits heavy nuclei into lighter ones, while fusion combines light nuclei to form heavier ones.

Front

What is a radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.