Nuclear Decay Reactions

Front

What is the process of producing lighter nuclei from heavier nuclei called?

Back

Fission

Front

What is a helium nucleus with two protons and two neutrons called?

Back

Alpha particle

Front

What is the term for the nuclear change in an atom of radioactive material?

Back

Nuclear decay

Front

What happens to the atomic number of an element when it undergoes nuclear decay by gamma rays?

Back

Remains the same

Front

What can happen to a radioactive element after its nucleus undergoes changes?

Back

It can transform into a different isotope of the same element or an entirely different element.

Front

What is the definition of nuclear fission?

Back

The splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between nuclear decay and nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear decay is a broader term that includes various types of radioactive decay, while fission specifically refers to the splitting of heavy nuclei.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted during nuclear decay, with no charge and no mass.

Front

What is the significance of half-life in nuclear decay?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive nuclei in a sample to decay.