Nuclear instability (AQA A-Level Physics): Flashcards

Nucleus with specific proton, neutron number and energy state

$N \approx Z$ (approximately equal neutrons and protons)

$N/Z > 1$ and increases progressively with heavier nuclei

2 protons and 2 neutrons (helium-4 nucleus)

$A$ decreases by 4, $Z$ decreases by 2

$A$ unchanged, $Z$ increases by 1

$A$ unchanged, $Z$ decreases by 1

Monoenergetic (all have same kinetic energy)

Continuous range from zero to maximum value

Around 3 fm