Chemistry & Chemical Technologies

NUCLEAR CHEMISTRY

The branch of chemistry known as nuclear chemistry studies radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and changes to atoms' nuclei, such as nuclear transmutation and nuclear characteristics.  Nuclear chemists work in a variety of fields of research, such as nuclear engineering and nuclear imaging in medicine (in power generation). They frequently seek to enhance the effectiveness and security of nuclear power sources as well as the procedures for storing and discarding radioactive waste. This module explores the history of nuclear chemistry from the work of Marie Curie and others. Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation are described in detail. The difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion is then explained and the half-life concept is applied to radioactive decay.