Band of Stability: Overview definitions Flashcards

The region on a neutron-proton plot where stable isotopes reside, indicating balanced nuclear forces.

A process where heavy isotopes emit an alpha particle, reducing atomic mass and leading to a new element.

A reaction where a heavy nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing energy and neutrons.

A decay process where a neutron-rich isotope converts a neutron into a proton, emitting a beta particle.

A process where an excess proton in the nucleus captures an electron, converting into a neutron.

A decay process where a proton-rich isotope emits a positron, converting a proton into a neutron.

A graph depicting isotopes' stability based on their neutron-to-proton ratios.

The force that holds the nucleus together, counteracting electrostatic repulsion between protons.

The force causing repulsion between like-charged protons within the nucleus.

Neutral subatomic particles acting as 'chemical glue' to stabilize the nucleus by reducing proton repulsion.

The process by which unstable isotopes transform into stable ones by emitting particles or radiation.

Variants of elements with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

The mass of an atom, typically measured in atomic mass units (AMU), influencing decay processes.

Isotopes that are unstable and undergo radioactive decay to achieve stability.

A metaphor for neutrons' role in mitigating proton repulsion within the nucleus.