Particles - Matter and Radiation (Module 1) Flashcards
What is an isotope?
An atom with the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons
How do you calculate Specific Charge of a particle?
Charge of nucleus divided by its mass (charge/mass Ckg^-1 )
What is the strong nuclear force?
The attractive force between nucleons that hold the nucleons to the nucleus
Give the range of distances the strong nuclear force can travel
Between 3-4 femtometres (1fm=10^-15m)
What does an Alpha particle contain?
Two protons and two neutrons (mass number 4)
What is produced in a Beta minus decay?
Particle –> Particle (with 1 more proton) + Beta minus particle + antineutrino
How do you calculate Photon Energy?
Photon Energy=Planck’s constant x frequency (E=hf)
Explain the process of annihilation
When a particle and antiparticle meet, they destroy each other and produce 2 photons (radiation)
Explain pair production
When a photon with sufficient energy passes near a nucleus or electron it can suddenly changes into a particle and antiparticle
What force is responsible for Beta Decay?
Weak nuclear force
Define how a neutron interacts with a neutrino
A neutron and neutrino interact by a W boson (via weak interaction) and a proton and beta minus particle is produced
Explain electron capture
Process where an inner-shell electron of an atom is captured by the nucleus. A proton and electron interact through a W+ boson producing a neutron and neutrino.
