1.
The smallest component of an element, containing a nucleus (protons and neutrons) surrounded by electrons.
2.
The tiny, dense, positively charged center of an atom made up of protons and neutrons.
3.
A stable subatomic particle with a positive charge found inside the nucleus.
4.
A subatomic particle found in the nucleus that has no electrical charge (neutral).
5.
Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons.
6.
Fission: A nuclear reaction where the nucleus of a heavy atom (like Uranium-235) splits into smaller, lighter nuclei, releasing a massive amount of energy.
7.
Fusion: A process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy (the process that powers the sun).
8.
Decay: The spontaneous process by which an unstable nucleus loses energy and emits radiation (alpha, beta, or gamma particles) to become more stable.
9.
Reaction: A series of nuclear fissions where the neutrons released by one splitting atom cause other atoms to split, releasing continuous energy.
10.
Reactor: A device used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction to produce energy.
