Question 1

Which device is depicted in the first image, and what is its primary function in nuclear chemistry?

Accepted Answer

A Geiger-Mueller counter; it detects and measures ionizing radiation.

Question 2

Based on the second image, which source contributes the most to the average annual radiation exposure for a person in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Radon

Question 3

Referencing the EPA map of radon zones (third image), which region of the United States is at the highest risk for radon exposure?

Accepted Answer

The Midwest and Northeast

Question 4

The fourth image shows the decay of $$^{90}\mathrm{Sr}. If $$the half-life is 28.8 years, how much of a 10 g sample remains after 57.6 years?

Accepted Answer

$$2.5\ \mathrm{g}$$

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the function of the device shown in the fifth image (cyclotron)?

Accepted Answer

It accelerates charged particles to high energies for nuclear reactions.

Question 6

The sixth image shows the binding energy per nucleon curve. Why is energy released in both nuclear fission and fusion?

Accepted Answer

Because both processes move nuclei toward higher binding energy per nucleon.

Question 7

In the nuclear reactor diagram (seventh image), what is the primary role of the control rods?

Accepted Answer

To absorb excess neutrons and regulate the fission chain reaction.

Question 8

Which of the following equations correctly represents the alpha decay of $$^{238}\mathrm{U}$$?

Accepted Answer

$$^{238}_{92}\mathrm{U} \$$rightarrow ^{234}$$_{90}\mathrm{Th} $$+ ^{4}$$_{2}\mathrm{He}$$

Question 9

Which statement about the biological effects of radiation is correct?

Accepted Answer

Gamma rays are the most penetrating and can cause ionization deep within tissues.

Question 10

A sample contains 40 mg of a radioactive isotope with a half-life of 20 years. How much will remain after 60 years?

Accepted Answer

$$5\ \mathrm{mg}$$

Question 11

Which of the following is a 'magic number' associated with extra nuclear stability?

Accepted Answer

20

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why neutrons are effective for inducing nuclear reactions in artificial transmutations?

Accepted Answer

Neutrons have no charge and are not repelled by the nucleus.

Question 13

Which nuclear process is responsible for the energy production in the sun?

Accepted Answer

Nuclear fusion

Question 14

What is the correct relationship between the half-life ($$t_{1/2}) $$and the decay constant ($$k) $$for a first-order radioactive decay?

Accepted Answer

$$t_{1/2} = \frac{0.693}{k}$$

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-world application of radioactive dating?

Accepted Answer

Determining the age of ancient wooden artifacts using $$^{14}\mathrm{C}$$

Question 16

Which of the following statements about nuclear fission reactors is correct?

Accepted Answer

Control rods are used to absorb neutrons and regulate the chain reaction.

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct balanced equation for the beta decay of $$^{14}\mathrm{C}$$?

Accepted Answer

$$^{14}_{6}\mathrm{C} \$$rightarrow ^{14}$$_{7}\mathrm{N} $$+ ^{0}$$_{-1}\mathrm{e}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a property of nuclear reactions compared to chemical reactions?

Accepted Answer

Rates are influenced by temperature and pressure.

Question 19

Which of the following is a reason why radon exposure is a significant health concern in homes?

Accepted Answer

Radon is a noble gas and can be inhaled, exposing lung tissue to alpha particles.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the difference between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation in terms of penetration power?

Accepted Answer

Gamma \u003e Beta \u003e Alpha

Chapter 21: Nuclear Chemistry – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions