Learn to write the symbols for protons, neutrons, electrons, alpha particles,
and positrons.
Name the different types of radioactive decay processes and describe the
characteristics of their radiation.
Complete nuclear equations for radioactive decay processes.
Describe the three natural radioactive decay series, with the uranium series as
an example.
Write equations for the artificial production of nuclides.
Name some of the transuranium elements and describe how they are made.
Describe how a charged-particle accelerator operates.
Given two of the quantities: rate of radioactive decay, half-life, and number
of atoms in a sample of a radioactive nuclide, calculate the third.
Determine the ages of rocks from the measured ratio of a stable nuclide to a
radioactive one and the ages of carbon-containing materials from the decay rate
of 14C.
Calculate the energies associated with nuclear reactions.
Calculate the average nuclear binding energy per nucleon for a nuclide.
Describe the factors that determine nuclear stability, establish whether a
nuclide is likely to be stable or radioactive, and predict the type of decay
process expected for a radioactive nuclide.
Describe the processes of nuclear fission and nuclear fusion, including the
problems with using them as energy sources.
Explain the effects of ionizing radiation on matter and describe several
radiation-detection devices based on these effects.
Discuss methods of expressing radiation dosages, some biological hazards of
ionizing radiation, and sources of radiation to which the general population is
exposed.
Discuss some practical, beneficial uses of radioisotopes.