unit 3 - Nuclear chemistry

Question 1

why are isotopes radioactive

Answer 1

they have an unstable nucleus (more neutrons than protons)

Question 2

why do isotopes emit radioactivity

Answer 2

unstable nuclei rearrange to become more stable and emit energy or a particle (this is nuclear decay)

Question 3

state each type of radiation and its range in air

Answer 3

alpha - can be stopped by a thin piece of paper or a few centimetres or air. beta - can be stopped by a thin sheet of metal. gamma - can be stopped by a thick layer of concrete

Question 4

if an isotope emits alpha radiation, what is really being emitted?

Answer 4

4
He 2+
2

Question 5

if an isotope emits beta radiation, what is really being emitted?

Answer 5

0
e ^-
-1

Question 6

if an isotope emits gamma radiation, what is really being emitted?

Answer 6

electromagnetic waves

Question 7

give three uses of radioisotopes

Answer 7

smoke detectors, tracing materials in the body, nuclear power stations