Radioactive & Nuclear Chemistry

Question 1

Radioactive Decay

Answer 1

• Unstable isotopes will decay spontaneously & continuously until they become stable
• Different Isotopes will undergo different types of decay
• Speed of decay will differ depending on the Isotope

Question 2

Difference in Radiations:

Answer 2

Alpha: Emits Alpha Particles (Helium Composition)
Beta: Converts Protons in the Nucleus -> Neutrons
Gamma: Emits Energy Photons

Question 3

Paths of Alpha, Beta, & Gamma Particles when Exposed to Magnetic Field:

Answer 3

Alpha: Attracts to the Negative Plates (2+)
Gamma: Stays between Positively & Negatively charged plates. (N0)
Beta: Attracts to Positive Plates (Negatively Charged)

Question 4

Difference Between Chemical & Nuclear Reactions?

Answer 4

Chemical: Combine, Separate, or Rearrange an atom.
Nuclear: Can produce a NEW Element

Question 5

Half life of Radioisotope:

Answer 5

• The amount of time it takes for an Isotope’s quantity to decay by half.
• Constant for Particular Isotopes; Some are fast, some are shorter.

Question 6

Fission V. Fussion

Answer 6

Fission: One large atom breaks into two, Mass of Product is slightly less than Mass of Reactants, Neutrons are produced to feed chemical reaction.
Fussion: Two smaller atoms combine into one, Release a lot of energy

Question 7

Opinion of Nuclear Power as an energy source:

Answer 7

Positives: Produce no CO2, Most efficient energy producer per gram of reactant.
Negatives: Produces radioactive waste, Not completely renewable