Nuclear Physics Flashcards
1
Q
What is radioactive decay?
A
Process in which an unstable nucleus becomes more stable by emitting radioactive radiation. This process is random and spontaneous
2
Q
What is alpha particle?
A
helium nucleus which consists of two protons and two neutrons
3
Q
What is beta particle?
A
a fast-moving electron. neutron in an unstable nucleus decomposes into one proton and one electron
4
Q
What are gamma rays?
A
high-frequency electromagnetic waves. during gamma decay, an unstable nucleus releases its excess energy to become more stable. Gamma rays have no mass and are neutral (no charge)
5
Q
What is half life?
A
the time taken for a sample of radioactive nuclei to decay to half of its initial number
