Physical Science Chapter 10 Study Guide

Nuclear Reactions

Changes in atomic nuclei can occur through three processes: fission, fusion, and radioactive decay. Fission and fusion can convert small amounts of matter into large amounts of energy. Fission is the splitting of a large nucleus into smaller nuclei at extremely high temperature and pressure. Fusion is the combination of smaller nuclei into a large nucleus and is responsible for the energy of the Sun and other stars. Radioactive decay occurs naturally in the Earth’s crust (rocks, minerals) and can be used in technological applications (e.g., medical diagnosis and treatment).

Michigan Content Statement Code	Statement
P4.12A	Describe peaceful technological applications of nuclear fission and radioactive decay.
P4.12B	Describe possible problems caused by exposure to prolonged radioactive decay.
P4.12C	Explain how stars, including our Sun, produce huge amounts of energy (e.g., visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light).

1. Identify the three types of radioactive decay

2. Identify the make up of the three types of radioactive decay

3. P4.12B: Identify the relative danger of the three types of radiation

4. Identify the least dense material that can stop each of the types of radiation

5. P4.12A: Explain nuclear fission and how it is used to generate electrical power

6. P4.12C: Explain what a nuclear chain reaction (RXN) is and how it involves neutrons

7. Explain how fission is different from fusion

8. P4.12C: Explain why it is hard to use fusion to generate electrical power on earth

9. P4.12C: Explain E=mc²

10. P4.12A: Describe peaceful technological applications of nuclear fission and radioactive decay.

11. P4.12C: Explain how stars, including our Sun, produce huge amounts of energy (e.g., visible, infrared, or ultraviolet light).