All Flashcards
What are the steps involved in radioactive decay?
- Unstable nucleus exists. 2. Nucleus emits radiation (alpha, beta, or gamma). 3. Nucleus transforms into a more stable configuration.
What are the steps of the Photoelectric Effect?
- Light shines on a metal surface. 2. If the light's frequency is above the threshold frequency, electrons are emitted. 3. Emitted electrons have kinetic energy related to the light's frequency and the metal's work function.
What are the differences between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation?
Alpha: Helium nuclei, low penetration | Beta: High-speed electrons/positrons, medium penetration | Gamma: High-energy photons, high penetration
What are the differences between the Strong and Weak Nuclear Forces?
Strong: Holds the nucleus together, strongest force, short range | Weak: Responsible for radioactive decay, weaker than strong force, short range
What are the differences between mass conservation and mass-energy conservation?
Mass Conservation: Mass remains constant in a closed system (classical physics) | Mass-Energy Conservation: Total mass and energy are conserved, but mass can be converted into energy (nuclear reactions)
What happens when a radioactive nucleus emits an alpha particle?
The atomic number decreases by 2, and the mass number decreases by 4.
What happens when light with a frequency above the threshold frequency shines on a metal?
Electrons are emitted from the metal surface (photoelectric effect).
What is the effect of increasing the frequency of light in the photoelectric effect (above the threshold frequency)?
The kinetic energy of the emitted electrons increases.
What happens when a neutron is absorbed by a Uranium-235 nucleus?
Nuclear fission occurs, producing Barium-141, Krypton-92, and three neutrons, along with a release of energy.