Nuclear chemistry

Isotope: atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons Atomic number: number of protons in the nucleus

Key concepts Radioactive atoms give off radiation in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays Radioactive decay causes an atom of one element (parent atom) to become a different element (daughter atom)

Each isotope decays in its own way Nuclear fission occurs when the nucleus of an atom becomes so unstable that it splits into two smaller atoms. Fission may be spontaneous or induced

Alpha Particles Where have we heard about Alpha particles before? Ernest Rutherford shot them at gold foil and discovered the nucleus Does anyone remember what an alpha particle is? Essentially a Helium nucleus, 2 protons and 2 neutrons stuck together

Only elements with atomic numbers greater than 83 can decay by α particle emission In alpha decay the atomic number of the parent nucleus is reduced by two

Alpha particles have low energy; they cannot penetrate a pieces of paper or even a thin layer of cloth However, if ingested, they will do more damage to internal tissue than other forms of radiation

Beta Particles Beta particles are represented by the symbol: β Beta particles are electrons emitted by an unstable atom. Beta particles are higher energy than alpha particles, but can be stopped by lead.

Gamma Rays Gamma rays are represented by the symbol: γ Gamma rays are high energy X-rays and only thick lead or concrete can stop them Gamma rays are not particles, they are waves of energy

Nuclear Project Topics: Nuclear Weapons in WWII Nuclear Weapons Now Nuclear Power Plants The Manhattan Project Nuclear Disasters Carbon Dating Nuclear Medicine Fusion Power -Groups 3-4 -5-10 min Presentation -Powerpoint -Must answer the guiding questions