1. 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.

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

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

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

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

6. Fission
Nucleus splits apart into multiple particles

7. Fusion
The bringing together of nuclei to form one larger nuclei

8. 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

9. 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?

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

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