Nuclear Physics: Exploring The Heart: Of Matter

When a nucleus has an unstable ratio of protons to neutrons, it undergoes to reach a more stable state. The three most common types are: Alpha (

Using isotopes for PET scans and targeted cancer radiation therapy. Nuclear Physics: Exploring the Heart of Matter

Because protons are all positively charged, they naturally want to repel each other. When a nucleus has an unstable ratio of

, this mass is converted into , the energy required to disassemble the nucleus. 4. Nuclear Reactions: Fission vs. Fusion , this mass is converted into , the

The splitting of a heavy nucleus (like Uranium-235) into smaller fragments. This process releases a massive amount of energy and is the foundation of current nuclear power plants.

) Decay: Emission of a helium nucleus (2 protons, 2 neutrons). Beta (

The process of slamming light nuclei (like Hydrogen isotopes) together to form a heavier one (like Helium). This is the power source of stars, including our Sun. It produces far more energy than fission with less radioactive waste, though it is currently difficult to sustain on Earth. 5. Radioactivity and Decay