Robert Jakubek and Michael Maki
Nuclear Chemistry
Given Equations and Values: c=2.99792458×108 m/s, E = mc2, –dN/dt = A = kN, N = Noe–kt, A =
Aoe–kt , PV=nRT, and R=0.08206
 Radioactivity/ Radioactive Decay: Is a property of matter whereby an unstable nucleus
spontaneously emits small particles and/or energy in order to attain a more stable nuclear state.

Radioactive isotope/ Radioisotope: An isotope that contains an unstable nucleus.

Sub-atomic particles: Beta particle (Electron), Alpha particle (Helium nucleus), Positron, and
Neutron.

Neutron: Are often emitted in nuclear reactions

Positron: Are the positive equivalents of electrons or beta particles.

Alpha Decay: Alpha decay is the spontaneous radioactive decay where an alpha particle is
produced.

Gamma Rays: Are produced when some radioactive decay events occur that leave the nucleus
with excess energy.

Gamma Radiation: High-energy photons that are emitted by radioactive nuclei. Gamma
radiation is very high-energy ionizing radiation.

Beta Decay: Beta decay refers to the spontaneous radioactive decay where a beta particle is
produced.

Electron Capture: Is a type of radioactive decay where the nucleus of an atom absorbs a K or L
shell electron and converts a proton into a neutron.

Nuclear Mass: The mass of an atomic nucleus, which is usually measured in atomic mass units.

Nuclear Charge: The effective nuclear charge is the net charges an electron experiences in an
atom with multiple electrons.

Nucleons: Nucleons are subatomic particles, such as protons and neutrons that exist in the
nuclei of atoms.

Half-life: Is the time required for a quantity to fall to half its value as measured at the beginning
of the time period.

Nuclear Fission: A nuclear reaction in which a heavy nucleus splits spontaneously or on impact
with another particle, with the release of energy.

Nuclear Fusion: A nuclear reaction in which atomic nuclei of low atomic number fuse to form a
heavier nucleus with the release of energy.