Matter And Radiation Flashcards
How are electrons held in the atom?
Their negative charge attracts the positively charged nucleus through the electrostatic force
What is a nucleon?
A proton or neutron in the nucleus
What is an isotope?
Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons
Why must the protons remain the same in an isotope?
Otherwise it would be an atom of a different element
What is the nucleaon number?
The total number of protons and neutrons in the atom
What is specific charge?
Charge dived by mass
What does the strong nuclear force do?
Overcomes the electrostatic force of repulsion between protons and keeps the protons and neutrons together
When does the strong force not hold the neutrons and protons together?
In an unstable nuclei
What is the range of the strong nuclear force?
3-4 femtometers
True or false - the strong nuclear force only works on two protons?
False - It has the same effect on two protons, two neutrons or a proton and a neutron
At what distance will it attract?
Between 0.5 fm and 3-4fm - any distance before 0.5fm it will repel
What is alpha decay?
When an alpha particle ( 2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted from a nucleus
What is beta decay?
When a neutron in the nucleus changes into a proton. A beta ( electron) is emitted along with an anti neutrino
What is gamma radiation?
It is electromagnetic radiation with no mass or charge. It occurs when an atom has too much energy, following an alpha or beta emission.
How were neutrinos and anti neutrinos detected?
When scientists measured the energy of beta particles emitted, the results varied up to a maximum. Some of the energy was being carried away by mysterious particles - neutrinos and antineutrinos