Nuclear energy involves subatomic particles like protons, neutrons and electrons that make up atoms. Atoms of the same element have the same number of protons but can have different numbers of neutrons, forming isotopes. Unstable isotopes become stable through radioactive emissions like alpha, beta, and gamma radiation of varying penetrating power that can be stopped by materials like skin, foil or concrete.

1. Nuclear Energy Ch 16

2. The Atom There are 3 subatomic particles proton neutron electron

3. Subatomic particles

4. Atomic Number Atomic number- Each element is different: different number of protons Atomic number- tells number of protons

5. Mass Number Sum of the protons and neutrons Mass Number Is 3 amu

6. Isotopes Same atomic number, different mass number- what does this mean? H-3 H-2

7. Unstable Isotopes Neutron-proton ratio is unbalanced- to get a more balanced ratio, radioactivity is emitted

8. 3 Types of Radiation Alpha Beta Gamma

9. Alpha He nuclei 4 +2 He 2 Weakest, most massive, + charge Stopped by or skin.

10. Beta Electron ( from nuclei) beta particle 0 e -1 Light, more penetrating power, stopped by Aluminium foil

11. Gamma High energy, not a particle, most damaging can be stopped by several feet of concrete or inches (a foot) of lead.