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Band of Stability definitions

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Terms in this set (15)

  • Nucleus
    The central part of an atom, composed of protons and neutrons, where nuclear forces act.
  • Protons
    Positively charged particles in the nucleus that contribute to atomic number.
  • Neutrons
    Neutral particles in the nucleus that act as a glue to hold protons together.
  • Strong Nuclear Force
    The attractive force that holds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus.
  • Columbic Forces
    Repulsive forces between protons due to their similar positive charges.
  • Neutron-to-Proton Ratio
    A ratio used to determine the stability of an isotope, denoted as n/z.
  • Atomic Number
    The number of protons in an element, determining its position in the periodic table.
  • Valley of Stability
    A region on a graph where isotopes are stable, balancing nuclear forces.
  • Beta Emission
    A radioactive decay process where an electron is emitted from the nucleus.
  • Positron Emission
    A decay process where a positron, a positive electron, is emitted.
  • Electron Capture
    A process where an electron is absorbed into the nucleus, reducing protons.
  • Alpha Decay
    A type of radioactive decay where an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus.
  • Spontaneous Fission
    A process where a heavy nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.
  • Isotopes
    Variants of elements with the same number of protons but different neutrons.
  • Radioactive Decay
    The process by which unstable nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.