SPS3. Students will distinguish the characteristics and components of radioactivity. a. Differentiate among alpha and beta particles and gamma radiation. b. Differentiate between fission and fusion. c. Explain the process half-life as related to radioactive decay. d. Describe nuclear energy, its practical application as an alternative energy source, and its potential problems.

Alpha Decay Atomic # decreases by 2 Atomic Mass decreases by 4 Alpha Particle: 2 4 𝐻𝑒

Beta Decay Atomic # increases by 1 Atomic Mass does not change Beta Particle: −1 0 𝑒

Gamma Decay Atomic # does not change! Atomic mass does not change! Gamma Ray: γ Gamma is the strongest type of radiation!

Write the alpha, beta, and gamma equation for the following radioactive isotope: Bismuth—214

Fission Nucleus splits apart into multiple particles

Fusion The bringing together of nuclei to form one larger nuclei

Half Life The time it takes for a radioactive isotope to decay half of its nuclei How to solve half-life equations a. Identify what the problem is asking you to solve b. Create a three column table with the following labels: 1. # of half lives. 2. Time elapsed. 3. Remaining amount of sample

Half-Life Practice Iodine-131 has a half-life of 9 days. Starting with 200 grams, how much Iodine-131 will remain after 27 days?

Nuclear Energy Pros Cons Lower carbon dioxide (and other greenhouse gases/air pollution) Larger power-generating capacity Accidents Nuclear waste lasts 200-500 thousand years Terrorism

Flashcard VOCAB Words! Alpha Decay Beta Decay Gamma Decay Fission Fusion Half Life (definition) Nuclear Energy (pros and cons)