Unit 3 Nuclear Chemistry Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in Unit 3 Nuclear Chemistry Deck (5)
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1
Q

why are isotopes radioactive?

A

they have an unstable nucleus (i.e. more neutrons than protons)

2
Q

why is energy emitted from radioactive isotopes?

A

they emit energy as they spontaneously rearrange to reduce the size of the nucleus (this is nuclear decay)

3
Q

what are the tree types of radiation

A

alpha, beta and gamma

4
Q

what is the mass and charge of each type of radiation?

A

alpha - helium particle with a mass of 4, charge of 2
beta - electron with mass of 0 and change of -1
gamma - electromagnetic waves - no mass or charge

5
Q

how can each type of radiation be stopped?

A

alpha - paper or a few centimetres of air
beta - a thin sheet of aluminium
gamma - thick layer of concrete