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Atomic Energy
Radioactivity, energy from nucleus
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Radioactivity | process by which an unstable nucleus gives off nuclear radiation |
Mass number | protons + neutrons |
Isotope | Atoms with different numbers of neutrons |
Alpha particle | stopped by paper or clothing |
Beta particle | stopped by 3mm of aluminum |
Gamma ray | stopped by lead or a few meters of concrete |
Half-life | time needed for half of a sample of radioactive substance to undergo radioactive decay |
Good uses of radioactivity | treat & prevent illness, can detect defects in structures |
Nuclear fission | process where nucleus splits into two nuclei |
Nuclear chain reaction | continuous series of nuclear fission reactions |
Nuclear fusion | process where smaller nuclei combine into one larger nuclei |
Disadvantages of fission | nuclear bomb, Chernobyl meltdown, radiation exposure |
Disadvantages of fusion | costly, expensive research |
Advantages of fission | electricity |