Nuclear Chemistry Essential Question: What are the different types of radioactive decay? How does each type change the nucleus?
TN Science Standards Chemistry I: Standard 3 – Interactions of Matter CLE 3221.3.2 Analyze chemical and nuclear reactions 3221.3.19 Write the nuclear equation involving alpha or beta particles based on the mass number of the parent isotope and complete symbols for alpha or beta emissions
Radioactive Decay Spontaneous disintegration of a nucleus into a smaller nucleus by releasing particles and energy Unstable nuclei are radioactive nuclides that decay to increase stability by changing their numbers of protons or neutrons
Radioactive Decay Alpha particle 2+ 4 Beta particle 1- Positron 1+ Type Emission (absorbed instead of emitted)* Symbol Charge Mass Alpha particle 2+ 4 Beta particle 1- Positron 1+ Gamma ray (EM energy) none Electron Capture*
Alpha Emission
Beta Emission
Positron Emission
Gamma Emission
Electron Capture Decay