Radioactivity and Atomic Energy

Alpha particle

A particle made of two protons and two neutrons, it is emitted from a radioactive nucleus. Alpha particle. An alpha particle is a type of radiation often described as a tiny, fast-moving helium nucleus emitted by certain radioactive materials.

Beta particle

A high-energy electron emitted by a radioactive nucleus. Beta particle. A beta particle is a fast-moving electron released during the radioactive decay of certain nuclei.

Chain reaction

A fission reaction which creates products that continue the same reaction repeatedly. Chain reaction. In science, a chain reaction is a process where the products of a reaction cause more reactions to occur in a continuous cycle.

Half-life

The time it takes for half the atoms of a radioactive isotope to decay. Half-life. Half-life is the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay into something else.

Nuclear fission

The splitting of an atomic nucleus into smaller nuclei and neutrons, this releases energy. Nuclear fission. In simple terms, nuclear fission is when an atom's core breaks apart, releasing a lot of energy.

Nuclear fusion

The combining of two nuclei to form a single nucleus, this releases energy. Nuclear fusion. In simple terms, nuclear fusion is the process that powers the sun by merging hydrogen atoms to produce energy.

Radioactivity

The ability of an unstable nucleus to emit radiation. Radioactivity. It's the process by which unstable atoms release energy to become more stable.