Introduction to Nuclear Chemistry The chemistry of the nucleus

All reactions that involve changes in the nucleus are called Nuclear Reactions. Nuclear Chemistry is the study of the chemistry “inside” the nucleus. When a reaction involves the transfer or sharing of valence electrons the reaction is called a chemical reaction. So Nuclear Chemistry will involve changes in the number of protons and neutrons each reacting atom has. A Periodic Table of the Elements at Los Alamos National Laboratory

This demonstration will introduce you to the four major uses of Nuclear Chemistry in our lives right now and in the near future. They are… Nuclear Fission Nuclear Fusion Nuclear Medicine Industrial Uses

Nuclear Fission Nuclear Fission is the splitting of a large nuclei into 2 or more smaller fragments. This reaction releases huge amounts of energy.

Nuclear Fusion Nuclear fusion is the combining (union) of two small atoms to create a larger atom.

Nuclear Medicine There are many applications of Nuclear Chemistry to the field of medicine. Many radioactive substances are used in the treatment of disease. Radioactive iodine-131 ( for thyroid) and cobalt-60 (to kill cancer cells) are just some of the numerous radioactive elements used.

Industrial uses of Nuclear Chemistry There are 100’s of uses of radioisotopes that are currently used in industry and some are actually used household devices. A partial list of some radioactive elements will be shown along with their everyday uses. Some of the Major Uses of Radioisotopes in the United States