Nuclear Chemistry

Question 1

Beta Particle

Answer 1

Fast electron
0
e
-1

Negative charge: -1
High velocity but low energy
No change in atomic mass, but increases atomic number by 1

Question 2

Gamma Radiation

Answer 2

Electromagnetic radiation identical to light
0
y
0

No charge
Same velocity as visible light
Typically emitted together with a beta particle
No change in either atomic mass or atomic number

Question 3

Positron Emission

Answer 3

0
e
+1

(Opposite of electron)

No change in atomic mass, but atomic number decreases by one

Question 4

Alpha Particle

Answer 4

Helium nucleus 4
                           He
                         2
Charge: 2+
High energy, relative velocity 

Atomic mass decreases by four, and atomic number decreases by two

Question 5

Electron capture

Answer 5

Can be symbolized with an e- or also with a beta-.

There is no change in atomic mass but the atomic number decreases by one