Nuclear Chemistry Flashcards
What is meant by the term radioactive decay
Radioactive decay is when unstable nuclei become stable by giving out alpha, beta or gamma radiation
State the elements which tend to have radioactive decay
Larger atoms
Describe the properties of alpha radiation
Positively charged, so is attracted to negative plate
Can only travel a few centimetres and are easily stopped by paper
Describe the properties of beta radiation
Electrons given out by nucleus. Have a negative charge so attracted to a positive plate.
Can travel about 1metre but can be stopped by a thin sheet of aluminium
Describe the properties of gamma radiation
Electromagnetic waves so are not affected by any charged plates.
They can travel long distances and can be stopped using barriers of lead or concrete.
Write the nuclide notation for an alpha particle
4
2He
Write the nuclide notation for a beta particle
0
-1 B
Write the nuclide notation for a proton
1
1 p
Write the nuclide notation for a neutron
1
0 n
Write the nuclide notation for an electron
0
-1 e
Identify the missing particle in the equation below
237
93. Np ~>. ———- + 4
2 He
Identify the missing particle in the equation below
241
95. Am. ~>. 237
93 Np. + ——-//
State the definition of a half life
Half life is the time taken for a nucleus of an isotope to half its radioactivity
Calculate the half life of a radioactive isotope
No question available
State some uses of radioactive isotopes
Medical
- sterilising equipment
Cancer treatment
Diagnostic procedures- as a tracer
Industry
Used in
smoke alarms
To ensure the thickness of paper
To detect leaks
