Cosmic/Nuclear Chemistry

Cosmic, or nuclear chemistry, is the study of radioactivity, nuclear processes, and transformations in the nuclei of atoms. In our unit, we mainly studied the different types of decay and how they resulted in different elements appearing. These types of decay include alpha, beta, positron emission, electron capture, and gamma emission, along with nuclear fission and fusion. This type of science can be helpful in assessing the danger of a radioactive substance, and the rate at which it will lose mass. If used correctly, this science can also lead to the harnessing of radioactive materials for use as an energy source.

Radioactive Decay

Radioactive decay can be illustrated with a sort of equation that represents how a heavy element becomes a combination of lighter particles. We can use the type of decay to subtract the mass and atomic numbers of the expelled particle from the original atom to find the mass and atomic numbers of the new atom, which we can find the identity of with the use of a periodic table. For example, if an element undergoes alpha decay, an alpha particle, or neutral helium atom is emitted, which means that 2 protons and 2 neutron are subtracted from the original element.

Reflection

I think I did well in my problem solving and collaboration. This concept is a complicated idea that is very confusing to begin with. However, I eventually figured out and understood the concepts in this unit. Additionally, I helped my teammates to the best of my ability through the unit when they needed it.

I think I could have improved my work ethic and time management, as I was unable to finish this website update until now. In the future, I will try to do assignments before they become immediate problems.