2
QuizMultiple Choice

Types of Radioactive Decay — Quiz

Question 2 • Chemistry

What is a key difference between chemical and nuclear reactions?

Answer
A
In chemical reactions, only alpha radiation is emitted. In nuclear reactions, alpha, beta, and gamma decay may occur.
B
Chemical reactions involve large changes in energy. Nuclear reactions absorb or release small amounts of energy.
C
Chemical reactions involve electron rearrangements. Nuclear reactions involve changes to the nucleus.
D
In chemical reactions, new compounds are formed. In nuclear reactions, compounds are destroyed.

Explanation

Chemical reactions rearrange electrons and the bonds between atoms, while the atoms’ nuclei remain unchanged. Nuclear reactions change the nucleus, such as by altering its particles or transforming one element into another. Therefore, the key difference is that chemical reactions involve electron rearrangements and nuclear reactions involve changes to the nucleus.

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