Nuclear Chemistry

ChemistryMs.PielaNuclear Chemistry

Nuclear ChemistryRadioactivity is the process of particles being emitted from a nucleus as a result of nuclear instabilityAny atomic numbers greater than 83 are unstableExamples: Uranium, PlutoniumHalf-life is the amount of time required for a decaying substance to lose half of its original amount

3 Main Types of Radioactive Decay

Beta DecayType of decay in which an electron is emittedSymbol: A neutron decomposes into a proton, an electron, and something known as an antineutrinoModerate penetrating power (4 mm of body tissue)Example:

4Alpha DecayType of decay in which a helium nucleus is emittedSymbol: Heaviest form of nuclear decayLow penetrating power (0.5 mm body tissue)Example:

Gamma DecayType of decay in which large amount of energy are emitted from a nucleusSymbol: Often emitted along with alpha or beta particlesNo mass or chargeVery high penetrating power (penetrates body easily, requires metal to block

Nuclear ChangesNuclear Fission is when the nucleus of an atom splits in order to form a more stable nucleus

Nuclear ChangesNuclear fusion is the combining of smaller nuclei into larger ones

Writing Nuclear EquationsMethodBalance out atomic number and mass number for each sideThe total for mass number and atomic number should be equalExample Problem #1Write a balanced nuclear equation that shows the alpha decay of polonium-218Nuclear Equation ExampleExample Problem #2Uranium-238 isotope undergoes beta decay and also emits gamma rays. Express this in an equation