Stable & Unstable Isotopes

Question 1

Isotopes

Answer 1

Elements with varying # of neutrons and have different mass #s

Question 2

Radioactive isotopes..

Answer 2

Isotopes spontaneously decay

Question 3

Plutonium (94)

Answer 3

All isotopes are radioactive

Question 4

Uranium (92)

Answer 4

Highest atomic weight of primordial elements - 238

Question 5

Radioactive decay

Answer 5

Creates new unstable elements that also decay. Decay proceeds to stable endpoint

Question 6

Parent isotope

Answer 6

Undergoes decay

Question 7

Daughter isotope

Answer 7

Product of decay

Question 8

Alpha decay

Answer 8

Emission of an alpha particle (2 protons, 2 neutrons)

Question 9

Beta decay

Answer 9

Emission of beta particle (an electron) from nucleus

Question 10

Gamma decay

Answer 10

Emission of gamma rays

Question 11

Electron capture

Answer 11

Capture of inner-shell electron by nucleus - conversion of a proton into neutron

Question 12

Stable isotope

Answer 12

Do not undergo decay. Nuclei remain intact

Question 13

Isotope fractionation

Answer 13

Preferential partitioning of heavier and lighter isotopes into 2 coexisting phases

Question 14

Kinetic fractionation

Answer 14

1 way street - nonreversible

Question 15

Equilibrium fractionation

Answer 15

2 way street - reversible

Question 16

Latitude effect on SI of water

Answer 16

Closer to the poles, isotopes become more depleted (lighter)

Question 17

Seasonal effect on SI of water

Answer 17

Warmer months have a higher value (heavier)

Question 18

Altitude effect on SI of water

Answer 18

Higher altitude has lower value (lighter)

Question 19

Amount effect on SI of water

Answer 19

SI decreases as storm time goes on (gets lighter)