Nuclear Stability Flashcards
What determines the stability of an atomic nucleus?
Proton-to-neutron ratio
Which of the following isotopes is most likely to be unstable?
a. Carbon-12
b. Carbon-14
c. Oxygen-16
d. Helium-4
b. Carbon-14
What is the name of the force that holds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus?
Strong nuclear force
Which type of radioactive decay changes the neutron-to-proton ratio?
Beta decay
True or false?
A stable nucleus has an equal number of protons and neutrons.
False
True or false?
Elements with an atomic number greater than 82 are typically unstable and emit radiation.
True
True or false?
Gamma decay involves the emission of particles that change the atomic number of an element.
False
True or false?
Adding neutrons to a nucleus can sometimes increase its stability.
True
What happens to radioactive atoms to become stable?
They release energy through radioactive decay.
Why is Carbon-12 more stable than Carbon-14?
Carbon-12 has the right balance of protons and neutrons, while Carbon-14 has extra neutrons.
How do nuclear forces help the nucleus stay together?
They pull protons and neutrons together, overcoming the repulsion between protons.
Would an isotope with 26 protons and 35 neutrons be stable? Why or why not?
No, because it has too many neutrons compared to protons.
What is the most stable nucleus based on binding energy per nucleon?
Iron-56
