Chapter 10 Flashcards
Radioactivity
The process in which an unstable atomic nucleus emits charged particles and energy.
Radioisotope
An isotope with an unstable nucleus.
Nuclear Radiation
Charged particles and electromagnetic waves that are emitted from the nuclei of radioisotopes.
Alpha Particle
A positively charged particle, emitted by certain radioactive nuclei, made up of two protons and two neutrons; a helium nucleus.
Beta Particle
An electron emitted by an unstable nucleus.
Gamma Ray
A penetrating form of radiation emitted by an unstable nucleus.
Background Radiation
Nuclear radiation that occurs naturally in the environment.
Half-Life
The time required for one half of a sample of a radioactive isotope to decay.
Strong Nuclear Force
The powerful attractive force that binds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus.
Fission
A nuclear reaction in which an atomic nucleus is split into two smaller parts.
Chain Reaction
A series of fission reactions triggered by neutrons released during the fission of a nucleus.
Fusion
A nuclear reaction in which the nuclei of two atoms combine to form a large nucleus.
