The process of combining two gametes (sperm and egg or pollen and egg) to form a zygote.
Fertilization
The process of combining two gametes (sperm and egg or pollen and egg) to form a single cell, which develops into a new individual.
Significance of Fertilization
Combines gametes to form a new individual, introduces genetic variation, and is the first step in reproduction, setting the stage for embryonic development.
Fusion
A general term that means combining or merging, often referring to the union of cells, particles, or substances
Fertilization
The specific process of sperm combining with an egg to form a zygote, resulting in the creation of offspring
Gametes
Haploid cells (containing half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell) specialized for reproduction, such as sperm and eggs
Zygote
The single cell formed as a result of fertilization, containing genetic material from both parents
Beta Radiation
High-energy electrons or positrons. Can be absorbed through skin or lungs, causing damage. More dangerous than alpha radiation but less deadly than gamma radiation.
Alpha Radiation
High-energy helium nucleus, high energy, heavy, and charged. Limited penetration, easily blocked by clothing, air, or a sheet of paper, but more dangerous when inhaled or ingested.
Object
In everyday life, objects are tangible things that can be seen, touched, and held. Examples: a book, a chair, a smartphone. In the context of contamination, objects refer to items that can become contaminated with radioactive particles, such as clothing, equipment, or surfaces.
Substance
In chemistry, a substance is a type of material that has a unique set of properties, such as melting and boiling points, density, and reactivity. Examples: water, air, soil. In the context of contamination, substances could refer to materials that are contaminated with radioactive particles, such as chemicals, isotopes, or compounds.
Alpha Decay
A type of radioactive decay where an atomic nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons (totaling 4 nucleons) to form a new nucleus with a different element.
Proton
A subatomic particle with a positive charge, found in the nucleus of an atom, carrying 1 unit of positive charge and having a mass of 1 atomic mass unit (amu).
Neutron
A subatomic particle with no charge, found in the nucleus of an atom, with a mass of 1 atomic mass unit (amu) almost identical to that of a proton.
Nucleon
A generic term for protons and neutrons, which are found in the nucleus of an atom and participate in nuclear reactions.
Atomic Nucleus
The central region of an atom where protons and neutrons are found, carrying the nuclear charge and forming the bulk of the atom's mass.
Strong Nuclear Force
A fundamental force of nature that holds quarks together inside protons and neutrons, and holds protons and neutrons together inside the atomic nucleus.
Proton-Proton Interaction
Protons are repelled by each other due to their positive charge.
Proton-Neutron Interaction
Protons and neutrons are attracted to each other due to the strong nuclear force.
Alpha Decay
A type of radioactive decay where a nucleus emits an alpha particle, a helium-4 nucleus (2 protons and 2 neutrons), resulting in a daughter nucleus with reduced atomic number
Activity decreases
As unstable nuclei decay and become stable, the number of radioactive nuclei decreases, resulting in a lower activity.
Becquerels (Bq)
The unit of activity, representing 1 decay per second.
Decay
The process by which unstable nuclei change into different elements or release radiation.
Unstable nuclei
Nuclei that are radioactive and will eventually decay into stable states.
Activity
A measure of the number of unstable nuclei that decay each second, usually measured in Becquerels (Bq).