Chem. Chapter 28 Nuclear Chemistry Key Terms
Nuclear Chemistry
Chemistry relating to the nucleus of the atom.
Fusion
Union of 2 atomic nuclei to form on heavier nuclei resulting in the release of energy.
Fission
Splitting of an atomic nucleus resulting in release of energy.
Isotope
Atoms of the same element with different weight due to the difference in the number of neutrons.
Radiation
Emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles.
Radioactivity
Process by which an atomic nucleus gives off radiation.
Radioactive decay
The spontaneous decomposition of an unstable nucleus to form a different or more stable nucleus and results in the emission of subatomic particles.
Radioactive isotope
An isotope that is radioactive.
Transmutation
Conversion of an atom of one element to an atom of another element.
Ionizing Radiation
Radiation with enough energy to knock electrons off atoms to produce ions.
Half Life
The time required for half of a radioactive substance to decay.
Atomic Number
Number of protons.
Mass Number
Number of protons & neutrons.
Transuranium elements
Elements with atomic number greater than 92, these elements do not occur in nature and are all radioactive.