Nuclear Chemistry

Front

What is Nuclear Chemistry?

Back

Nuclear Chemistry is the study of the chemical and physical properties of elements as influenced by changes in the structure of the nucleus. It includes the study of radioactivity, nuclear processes, and properties of radioactive isotopes.

Front

Which isotope is radioactive: H-1, N-14, Rn-222, or Na-23?

Back

Rn-222 is radioactive.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A beta particle is an energetic electron emitted from a decomposed neutron during beta decay.

Front

Solve for beta decay: 6^14C = ___ + -1^0e.

Back

7^14N.

Front

What is the half-life of a radioactive substance?

Back

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

Front

How long does it take for 180 grams of gold-198 to decay to 22.5 grams if its half-life is 2.68 days?

Back

8.04 days.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a helium nucleus consisting of two protons and two neutrons.

Front

What is radioactivity?

Back

Radioactivity is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What is the difference between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation?

Back

Alpha radiation consists of alpha particles, beta radiation consists of beta particles (electrons), and gamma radiation consists of high-energy photons.

Front

What is a neutron?

Back

A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric charge and a mass slightly greater than that of a proton.