Weakest type of nuclear radiation; consists of a helium nucleus released during alpha decay.
Artificial Transmutation
Changing of one element into another by unnatural means; involves bombarding a nucleus with high-energy particles to cause change.
Gamma Ray
High-frequency electromagnetic wave released during gamma decay; strongest type of nuclear radiation.
Beta Particle
Electron, created in the nucleus of an atom, released during beta decay.
Binding Energy
Energy associated with the strong nuclear force that holds an atomic nucleus together, related to the stability of a nucleus.
Decay Series
Sequence of steps by which a radioactive nucleus decays into a non-radioactive nucleus.
Half-Life
Amount of time it takes for half the atoms in a given sample of an element to decay.
Radioactive Decay
Process in which a nucleus spontaneously emits particles or rays to become lighter and more stable.
Radioactivity
Release of energy and matter that results from changes in the nucleus of an atom.
Tracer
Radioactive element whose pathway can be followed through the steps of a chemical reaction or industrial process.
Transmutation
Process in which one element is changed into another as a result of changes in the nucleus.
Critical Mass
The smallest mass of a fissionable material that will sustain a nuclear chain reaction at a constant level.
Nuclear Chain Reaction
Series of fission reactions that occur because the products released during one fission reaction cause the fission reactions in other atoms.
Nuclear Fission
Splitting of an atomic nucleus into two smaller nuclei of approximately equal mass.
Nuclear Fusion
Joining of two atomic nuclei of smaller mass to form a single nucleus of larger mass.
Transuranium Element
Element formed synthetically; has more than 92 protons in its nucleus.
Nuclear Reactor
Any of several devices in which a chain reaction is initiated and controlled, with the resulting heat typically used for power generation and the neutrons and fission products used for military, experimental, and medical purposes.
Cardio Block2anatomy
