key term - Nuclide

Definition

A nuclide is a specific type of atomic nucleus characterized by a certain number of protons and neutrons. It is often represented by the notation $^{A}_{Z}X$, where $X$ is the chemical symbol, $A$ is the mass number, and $Z$ is the atomic number.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nuclides are identified by their proton (atomic number) and neutron count (mass number minus atomic number).
2. Isotopes are different nuclides of the same element, having the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
3. Radioactive nuclides can undergo decay processes like alpha, beta, or gamma decay.
4. The stability of a nuclide depends on its proton-to-neutron ratio; unstable nuclides are radioactive.
5. Nuclides play a crucial role in nuclear reactions, including fission and fusion processes.

Review Questions

Related terms

Isotope:

Atoms with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Radioactive Decay:

The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Nuclear Fission:

The splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei with the release of energy.