Nuclear chemistry is the branch of chemistry that focuses on changes in the nucleus of an atom rather than the chemical reactions involving electrons. It studies phenomena such as radioactivity, nuclear decay, fission, and fusion.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Radioactivity:
- The spontaneous emission of particles or energy from an unstable atomic nucleus.
- Common types: alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) radiation.
- Nuclear Reactions:
- Unlike regular chemical reactions (which involve electrons), nuclear reactions involve changes in the number of protons and neutrons, creating new elements or isotopes.
- Examples include nuclear fission (splitting of heavy nuclei) and nuclear fusion (combining light nuclei).
- Applications of Nuclear Chemistry:
- Medicine: Radioisotopes for diagnosis and treatment (e.g., cancer therapy).
- Energy: Nuclear power plants using fission.
- Industry: Tracers and radiography.
- Research: Understanding atomic structure and astrophysics.
In short, nuclear chemistry bridges chemistry and physics by examining atomic nuclei and the energy they release or absorb, rather than focusing on chemical bonds.