Science Chapter 3 Section 5 Flashcards

During radioactive decay, the identity of an atom changes.

Radioactive decay can produce alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Uses of radioactive isotopes include determining the ages of fossils, tracing chemical reactions and industrial processes, diagnosing and treating diseases, and providing sources of energy.

<p>The atomic nuclei of radioactive isotopes release fast-moving particles and energy, changing the identity of the atom to a different element.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Splitting of large nuclei into two smaller atoms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Joining of two smaller nuclei to form one larger atom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Involves the particles in the nucleus of an atom, allowing scientists to change one element into another.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Uranium that was able to spontaneously emit radiation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Consists of two protons and two neutrons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A fast-moving electron given off by a nucleus during radioactive decay.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Consists of high-energy waves, similar to X-rays.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The length of time needed for half of the atoms of a sample to decay.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>When scientists calculate how many half-lives have passed since the plant died to estimate the age of the fossil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Radioactive isotopes that can be followed through the steps of a chemical reaction or an industrial process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Marie Curie and her husband Pierre Curie showed that uranium spontaneously emitted radiation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Releases an alpha particle, causing it to decrease its atomic number by 2 and mass number by 4.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Releases a beta particle, with the nucleus gaining one proton but losing a neutron, increasing the atomic number by 1.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>High-energy waves given off during alpha and beta decay with no change to nuclei.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Determining the age of fossils, tracing chemical reactions and industrial processes, diagnosing and treating diseases, and serving as a source of energy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It is sometimes used to target cancer tumor cells which are more susceptible to damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The energy released in nuclear reactions used to generate electricity at nuclear power plants and some large ocean vessels.</p> Signup and view all the answers