Chemistry 2.0 Flashcards
Isotopes
Isotopes of an Element share the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons.
Radiation
the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles
Molecular
relating to or consisting of molecules.
stable
Where the protons and neutrons held together strongly, with a strong nuclear force Usually with a full outer shell.
unstable
Where protons and neutrons are not held together strongly.
radioisotopes
Radioisotopes are isotopes where its protons and neutrons are not held together strongly. They decay into other elements by releasing particles, which causes radiation.
Nuclear Radiation
Nuclear Radiation is the emission of particles and electromagnetic waves.
Alpha Particles
Alpha particles are particles emitted from the nucleus of an atom. They consist of two protons and two neutrons, essentially a helium nucleus.
Beta Particles
Beta particles are particles that are emitted from the nucleus of an atom. They have the same mass and size as an electron.
Gamma rays
Gamma rays are rays emitted from the nucleus after alpha, or beta decay. Gamma rays can penetrate almost anything and can only be stopped by a thick sheet of lead. Gamma radiation is very dangerous. Gamma rays are not particles.
Half-Life
The half-life is the time it takes for half of the nuclei of an atom to decay.
cosmic radiation
cosmic radiation is the radiation that comes from outer space. They are mostly in the form of high-energy protons from stars and suns.
Radiometric dating
Radiometric dating is a technique used to record how old a sample from an archaeological site. It uses a naturally occurring radioisotope to measure its age.
Radiocarbon dating
Radiocarbon dating is radiometric dating with the isotopes of carbon.
Nuclear reactors
Nuclear reactors are basically generators that use the isotopes of uranium to create electricity. They do this by a process called nuclear fission, which creates heat that causes water to boil, the steam drives the turbines which creates electricity.
Fuel rods
Fuel rods are rods that contain uranium dioxide which is sealed in.
fission
Nuclear fission is where neutrons are fired at a radioactive element, causing it to split and form two new elements, this releases neutrons radiation and heat.