1. Nuclear Physics

2. Outcomes What is the difference between alpha, beta and gamma radiation? What are the rules for writing equations of nuclear reactions? How can we make radioisotopes?

3. Alpha Decay 2 protons 2 neutrons No electrons Equivalent to a Helium nucleus

4. Alpha Decay - example Uranium-238 will decay into Thorium-234 by emitting an alpha particle Atomic number (charge) is conserved Atomic mass (nucleons) is conserved

5. Beta Decay An electron originating from nucleus (WTF!) A neutron turns into a proton, electron and an antineutrino

6. Beta Decay - example Carbon-14 has too many neutrons to be stable. Atomic number (charge) is conserved Atomic mass (nucleons) is conserved

7. Gamma Decay Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, very high frequency. No charge and no mass

8. Gamma Decay - example Iodine-131 decays by beta AND gamma emission Atomic number (charge) is conserved Atomic mass (nucleons) is conserved

9. Producing Radioisotopes By process called “artificial transmutation” Example: Neutron absorption