Nuclear Flashcards
Define the term “nuclear”.
Of or relating to the nucleus.
Define “element”.
Substance that cannot be chemically interconverted or broken down into simpler substances and are primary constituents of matter.
Define “isotope”.
Two or more forms of the same element that contain equal numbers of protons, but different numbers of neutrons.
Define “fission”.
Action of splitting or being split into two or more parts.
Define “fusion”.
Process of joining two or more things together to form a single entity.
Discuss the nuclear structure of protons and neutrons.
Both composed from quarks.
Proton= 2 up, 1 down.
Neutron= 1 up, 2 down.
Discuss repulsion and attraction in a nucleus.
Repulsion: Coulombic force between particles.
Attraction: Nuclear force between quarks.
Define binding energy.
Energy required to separate a nucleus into individual atoms.
Discuss relationship between protons and neutrons.
Neutrons need to be present so that protons can bind together. Slightly more than one neutron is required per proton.
Discuss nuclear fusion.
Atomic nuclei of low atomic number fuse to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
Discuss nuclear fission.
Nuclear reaction in which a heavy nucleus splits spontaneously or on impact with another particle, energy is released.
Discuss radioactive decay.
Process by which a nucleus of an unstable atom loses energy by emitting ionizing radiation.
What are the five main types of radioactive decay?
Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Beta+, Electron capture.
Name the five leading countries in terms of nuclear power.
USA, France, Russia, South Korea, China.
Name the six main types of nuclear reactor.
PWR: Pressurized Water Reactors. BWR: Boiled Water Reactors. GCR: Gas Cooled Reactors. PHWR: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors. FBR: Fast Boiler Reactors. LWGR: Light Water-cooled Graphite-moderated Reactors.
