Nuclear Chemistry Already Rated A+

Nuclear Chemistry Already Rated A+ Atomic Structure Electrons are a crucial part of an atom, playing a key role in chemical reactions. On the other hand, the nucleus is the core of an atom, where nuclear reactions take place. The strong nuclear force is a powerful attraction that holds neutrons and protons together within the nucleus. Discovery of Radioactivity Henri Becquerel accidentally discovered radioactivity while observing the effect of uranium salts on photographic plates. Marie and Pierre Curie further explored this phenomenon and identified new elements, polonium and radium, as well as described the process of radioactivity. Types of Radiation Ernest Rutherford identified three types of nuclear radiation: alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, carrying a positive charge. Beta particles are high speed electrons emitted during the decay of radioactive isotopes. Gamma radiation is a form of high energy waves emitted by radioactive nuclei. Nuclear Decay Nuclear decay occurs when an atom undergoes a spontaneous change in its nucleus, emitting nuclear radiation in the process. This phenomenon is characterized by the emission of alpha, beta, or gamma radiation. Stability of Atoms Most atoms are incredibly stable, having existed since the beginning of time. However, some isotopes are unstable and emit energetic particles, alpha and beta waves, releasing radiation. Unstable Isotopes Unstable isotopes, also known as radioactive isotopes, undergo nuclear decay, emitting particles and energy. These fragments are referred to as radiation. what makes an isotope unstable? ️having too many or too few neutrons compared to the number of electrons it increases ️what happens to the neutron to proton ratio as elements get larger? alpha particle (properties) ️identity = helium nuclei; composition 2 protons and 2 neutrons; charge 2+; penetration ability = low; mass = 4 atomic number = 2 beta particle (properties) ️identity = high speed electron; charge = -1; penetrating ability = moderate; mass = 0; atomic number = -1 Np-237 ️what will Am-241 become if it undergoes alpha decay? N-14 ️What will C-14 become if it undergoes beta decay? fission (definition) ️When one larger nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei. Process releases energy. nuclear reactor or nuclear bomb ️where does fission take place? fusion (definition) ️combining small nuclei to make a larger nucleus -but high temperatures needed to overcome repulsion of the positive nuclei sun and stars or hydrogen bomb ️where does fusion take place half-life ️the time it takes for half of a radioactive sample to decay 4 half-lives decays to what percentage of the original? ️1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2 = 6.2