Nuclear Physics Fundamentals

In nuclear physics, the basic unit of matter is the neutron, which is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation and transforming into a more stable nucleus.

The subatomic particle that carries a positive electric charge and is found in the nucleus of an atom is called a proton.

Nuclear fusion is a type of nuclear reaction in which two atomic nuclei combine to form a single heavier nucleus.

Nuclear fission is the process by which a nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei.

Alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays are all types of radiation emitted by radioactive materials.

The strong nuclear force is the fundamental force that governs the interactions between subatomic particles.

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle.

Beta decay is the process by which an atomic nucleus emits a beta particle.

Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits a gamma ray.

Carbon-14 is the radioactive isotope of carbon that is used in carbon dating.

A pressurized water reactor is a type of nuclear reactor that uses nuclear fission to generate electricity.

Neutron capture is the process by which a neutron is absorbed by an atomic nucleus.

Tokamak reactors, stellarator reactors, and inertial confinement fusion reactors are all types of nuclear reactors that use nuclear fusion to generate electricity.

Uranium-235 is the radioactive isotope of uranium that is used in nuclear power plants.