Question

Write a brief description or definition of each of the following:

(a) nucleon


(b) α particle


(c) β particle


(d) positron


(e) γ ray


(f) nuclide


(g) mass number


(h) atomic number

Answer 1

A nucleon is a particle contained in the nucleus of an atom, like protons and neutrons. An α particle is the nucleus of a helium atom.

Step-by-step explanation:

A β particle is a high-speed electron. A positron is a particle with the same mass as an electron but with a positive charge. γ rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation.

A nuclide refers to a single type of nucleus. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons. The atomic number is the number of protons.

1. A nucleon refers to any particle contained in the nucleus of an atom, such as protons and neutrons.
2. An α particle is a product of natural radioactivity and is the nucleus of a helium atom.
3. A β particle is a product of natural radioactivity and is a high-speed electron.
4. A positron is a particle with the same mass as an electron but with a positive charge.
5. γ rays are electromagnetic radiation of high energy and short wavelength.
6. A nuclide refers to a single type of nucleus.
7. The mass number is the sum of the number of protons and the number of neutrons in an element.
8. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an element.