Ch 1.2 Notes

Nuclear decay:

• Random process when an unstable atomic nucleus loses it energy by emission of electromagnectic radiation or particles

• Alpha decay

  • Emits alpha particle

• Beta decay:

  • Emits beta particle (fast moving electron)

Gamma radiation:

• Emmitted during alpha and beta decay

Nuclear fission:

• Process in which nucleus splits into 2 parts and releases a large amount of energy

Nuclear fusion:

• When two light atomic nuclei combine to form one heavier atomic nucleus and release a large amount of energy