(4.) Physics Hl/Sl. Atomic And Nuclear Physics / Energy, Power, Climate Change

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Nuclear Science Quizzes & Trivia

Quiz on physics sections 7 and 8, focusing on definitions. Don't screw up the definition questions!�You get�free points if you just learn them.


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    “The components of a nucleus (protons and neutrons)” What is being defined?

    Explanation
    The term being defined is nucleon. A nucleon refers to the components of a nucleus, which are protons and neutrons. Protons have a positive charge, while neutrons have no charge. Together, they make up the majority of the mass of an atom.

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  • 2. 

    “A spectrum where all possible frequencies of light are present” What is being defined?

    • A.

      Continuous spectrum

    • B.

      Emission spectrum

    • C.

      Absorption spectrum

    Correct Answer
    A. Continuous spectrum
    Explanation
    A continuous spectrum refers to a spectrum where all possible frequencies of light are present. This means that there is a seamless range of colors without any gaps or missing frequencies. It is different from an emission spectrum, which only shows specific wavelengths emitted by a light source, and an absorption spectrum, which shows specific wavelengths absorbed by a material.

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  • 3. 

    “A spectrum where the frequencies of light emitted by an element are absent” Write down what type of spectrum this is

    Correct Answer
    absorption spectrum
    Explanation
    An absorption spectrum refers to a spectrum where specific frequencies of light emitted by an element are missing or absorbed. This occurs when the element absorbs certain wavelengths of light, resulting in dark lines or gaps in the spectrum. These dark lines correspond to the specific energies needed to excite electrons in the element's atoms. By studying the absorption spectrum, scientists can identify the element and gain insights into its composition and properties.

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  • 4. 

    The light that an element emits can be define as its emission spectrum

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement is true because the emission spectrum of an element refers to the specific wavelengths of light that it emits when it undergoes a transition from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. Each element has a unique emission spectrum, which can be used to identify and analyze its chemical composition. Therefore, the light emitted by an element can indeed be defined as its emission spectrum.

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  • 5. 

    “The name given to a particular species of atom (one whose nucleus contains a specified number of protons and a specified number of neutrons)” What is being defined?

    • A.

      Nucleon

    • B.

      Nucleus

    • C.

      Nuclide

    • D.

      Neutron

    Correct Answer
    C. Nuclide
    Explanation
    A nuclide is being defined in this question. A nuclide refers to a particular species of atom that has a specific number of protons and neutrons in its nucleus. This term is used to describe atoms with specific combinations of protons and neutrons, which determines their identity and properties.

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  • 6. 

    Isotopes are nuclides containing the same number of [1] but different number of [2]

    • A.

      [1] protons, [2] neutrons

    • B.

      [1] neutrons, [2] protons

    Correct Answer
    A. [1] protons, [2] neutrons
    Explanation
    Isotopes are nuclides that have the same number of protons (atomic number) but different numbers of neutrons. This means that they have the same number of positive charges in the nucleus but different masses. The different number of neutrons gives each isotope a different atomic mass.

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  • 7. 

    Define "radioactive decay"

    • A.

      The process by which an atom loses its mass over time

    • B.

      The process by which atomic nuclei decay

    • C.

      The process by which an atom loses its electrons to the surroundings

    Correct Answer
    B. The process by which atomic nuclei decay
    Explanation
    Radioactive decay refers to the process in which atomic nuclei undergo spontaneous disintegration, resulting in the emission of radiation. It is a natural process that occurs in unstable atoms, causing them to transform into different elements. During radioactive decay, the atomic nucleus releases energy in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays, leading to a decrease in the mass and atomic number of the nucleus. This process is essential in various fields such as medicine, energy production, and understanding the age of rocks and fossils.

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  • 8. 

    "Half-life" can simply be defined as the time taken for half the number of nucleons in a sample to decay

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement is true because the half-life of a substance refers to the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay. This means that after one half-life, half of the atoms will have decayed and after two half-lives, three-fourths of the atoms will have decayed, and so on. Therefore, the definition provided accurately describes the concept of half-life.

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  • 9. 

    An artificial reaction in which a nucleus is bombarded with a nucleon, an alpha particle, or another small nucleus is known as an artificial [...]

    Correct Answer
    transmutation
    Explanation
    An artificial reaction in which a nucleus is bombarded with a nucleon, an alpha particle, or another small nucleus is known as transmutation. Transmutation refers to the process of changing one element into another by altering the number of protons in the nucleus. This can be achieved by bombarding the nucleus with particles, causing it to undergo nuclear reactions and resulting in the formation of a different element. Transmutation has been used in various applications, including the production of radioactive isotopes for medical and industrial purposes.

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  • 10. 

    “The amount of energy released when a nucleus is assembled from its component nucleons” What is being defined above?

    Correct Answer
    binding energy
    Explanation
    The given definition is describing the concept of binding energy. Binding energy refers to the amount of energy that is released when a nucleus is formed by bringing together its constituent nucleons (protons and neutrons). It represents the strength of the nuclear force that holds the nucleons together within the nucleus.

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  • 11. 

    Nuclear fission can be defined as a “nuclear reaction whereby small nuclei are induced to join together into larger nuclei and release energy in the process”

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    B. False
    Explanation
    Nuclear fusion is being defined. Nuclear fission is a “nuclear reaction whereby large nuclei are induced to break up into smaller nuclei and release energy in the process”

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  • 12. 

    “Energy that is no longer available to perform useful work” What is being defined?

    • A.

      Lost heat energy

    • B.

      Thermal energy

    • C.

      Degraded energy

    • D.

      Consumed energy

    Correct Answer
    C. Degraded energy
    Explanation
    Degraded energy refers to energy that has been converted into a form that is no longer available to perform useful work. This means that the energy has been transformed into a less useful or lower-quality form, such as waste heat or dispersal of energy. It cannot be easily harnessed or utilized to perform useful tasks.

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  • 13. 

    A source of energy that cannot be used up is said to be ...

    Correct Answer
    renewable
    Explanation
    A source of energy that cannot be used up is said to be renewable. This means that it is naturally replenished and can be continuously harnessed without depleting its resources. Renewable energy sources include solar power, wind power, hydroelectric power, and geothermal energy. These sources of energy are considered sustainable and have a minimal impact on the environment compared to non-renewable sources such as fossil fuels.

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  • 14. 

    “The energy liberated per unit mass of fuel consumed” What is being defined?

    • A.

      Work function

    • B.

      Energy density

    • C.

      Critical mass

    • D.

      Albedo

    Correct Answer
    B. Energy density
    Explanation
    The given definition is describing "Energy density," which refers to the amount of energy released per unit mass of fuel consumed. It is a measure of how much energy can be obtained from a given amount of fuel.

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  • 15. 

    Fuels that have been produced from the accumulations of dead matter are known as ...

    Correct Answer
    fossil fuels
    Explanation
    Fuels that have been produced from the accumulations of dead matter are known as fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are formed over millions of years from the remains of plants and animals that lived long ago. These fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas, and they are non-renewable resources. Fossil fuels are widely used for energy production, but their extraction and burning contribute to environmental issues such as air pollution and climate change.

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  • 16. 

    The critical mass is the stage in a nuclear reaction where a [...] can occur

    Correct Answer
    chain reaction
    Explanation
    The critical mass is the stage in a nuclear reaction where a chain reaction can occur. In a chain reaction, the fission of one atomic nucleus releases neutrons that can go on to collide with other atomic nuclei, causing them to undergo fission as well. This process continues in a self-sustaining manner, releasing a large amount of energy. The critical mass is the minimum amount of fissile material required to sustain a chain reaction. Below this threshold, the reaction will not propagate, while above it, the reaction will continue and potentially lead to a nuclear explosion.

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  • 17. 

    “Material that absorbs excess neutrons to prevent an uncontrollably large release of energy” A "moderator" is defined above

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    B. False
    Explanation
    Control rods are being defined. A moderator is a material whose atoms slow down neutrons to make them suitable for reaction.

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  • 18. 

    “Device that allows the nuclear reactions to occur in a place that is sealed from the rest of the environment” Write down what is being defined

    Correct Answer
    heat exchanger
    Explanation
    A heat exchanger is a device that allows nuclear reactions to occur in a sealed environment, separate from the rest of the surroundings. It is designed to transfer heat from one fluid to another without mixing them, ensuring that the nuclear reactions can take place safely and efficiently. The heat exchanger facilitates the transfer of thermal energy, allowing the controlled release or absorption of heat in a controlled environment.

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  • 19. 

    A reactor design that utilizes plutonium-239 is known as a fast breeder reactor

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    A fast breeder reactor is a type of reactor design that uses plutonium-239 as a fuel. This type of reactor is capable of producing more fissile material than it consumes, making it an efficient way to generate nuclear energy. Plutonium-239 is a highly radioactive isotope that can undergo fission and release a large amount of energy. Therefore, it is correct to say that a reactor design that utilizes plutonium-239 is known as a fast breeder reactor.

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  • 20. 

    “Device which converts a portion of the sun’s radiated energy directly into a potential difference” What is defined?

    • A.

      Solar panel

    • B.

      Photovoltaic cell

    • C.

      Active solar heater

    • D.

      Albedo

    Correct Answer
    B. Photovoltaic cell
    Explanation
    A photovoltaic cell is a device that converts a portion of the sun's radiated energy directly into a potential difference. It is commonly known as a solar cell and is used to generate electricity from sunlight.

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  • 21. 

    An active solar heater is a “device which captures as much [...] from the sun as possible, which can be used to heat water”

    Correct Answer
    thermal energy
    heat energy
    heat
    Explanation
    An active solar heater is designed to capture thermal energy or heat energy from the sun in order to heat water. This means that the device is specifically engineered to maximize the amount of heat it can collect from the sun and convert it into usable energy for heating water. Therefore, the correct answer options are thermal energy, heat energy, and heat.

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  • 22. 

    “Law stating that, for a given area of receiver, the intensity of the received radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the point source to the receiver” Which law is this?

    • A.

      Wien's displacement law

    • B.

      Boltzmann's law

    • C.

      Hooke's law

    • D.

      Inverse square law

    Correct Answer
    D. Inverse square law
    Explanation
    The given law states that the intensity of received radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the point source to the receiver. This law is known as the inverse square law. According to this law, as the distance between the point source and the receiver increases, the intensity of the radiation decreases rapidly. This law is commonly applied in various fields such as physics, astronomy, and photography to understand the behavior of radiation.

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  • 23. 

    Black-body radiation can simply be defined as "the radiation from a perfect absorber"

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    B. False
    Explanation
    "The radiation from a perfect emitter" is correct

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  • 24. 

    “The fraction of the radiation received by a planet that is reflected back into space” Write down the six-letter concept that is defined above

    Correct Answer
    albedo
    Explanation
    The concept defined above is "albedo." Albedo refers to the fraction of radiation received by a planet that is reflected back into space. It is a measure of how reflective a planet's surface is.

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  • 25. 

    Wien's displacement law relates the wavelength at which the intensity of the radiation is at maximum, to the temperature of a [...]

    Correct Answer
    black body
    Explanation
    Wien's displacement law states that the wavelength at which the intensity of radiation emitted by a black body is at its maximum is inversely proportional to the temperature of the black body. In other words, as the temperature of a black body increases, the peak wavelength of the radiation it emits shifts towards shorter wavelengths (higher energy). This relationship between temperature and peak wavelength is a fundamental principle in understanding the behavior of black bodies and plays a crucial role in various fields such as astrophysics and thermal radiation.

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  • 26. 

    Two systems are in [...] if their temperatures are the same

    • A.

      Translation equilibrium

    • B.

      Perfect harmony

    • C.

      Heat equilibrium

    • D.

      Thermal equilibrium

    Correct Answer
    D. Thermal equilibrium
    Explanation
    Thermal equilibrium refers to a state in which two systems have the same temperature. This means that there is no net transfer of heat between the systems, and they are in a state of balance. In thermal equilibrium, the systems have reached a point where their temperatures are equal, resulting in a stable and balanced condition.

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  • 27. 

    “The ratio of power radiated per unit area by an object, to the power radiated per unit area by a black body at the same temperature” What is being defined?

    • A.

      Feedback

    • B.

      Coefficient of volume expansion

    • C.

      Emissivity

    • D.

      E.m.f.

    Correct Answer
    C. Emissivity
    Explanation
    Emissivity is being defined. Emissivity is a measure of how efficiently an object radiates heat compared to a black body at the same temperature. It is the ratio of the power radiated per unit area by an object to the power radiated per unit area by a black body at the same temperature.

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  • 28. 

    "The gases in the atmosphere which absorb infra-red radiation" are known as

    Correct Answer
    greenhouse gases
    Explanation
    Greenhouse gases are the gases in the atmosphere that have the ability to absorb and emit infrared radiation. This process, known as the greenhouse effect, is responsible for trapping heat in the Earth's atmosphere and regulating the planet's temperature. Examples of greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and water vapor (H2O). These gases play a crucial role in maintaining Earth's climate and are responsible for the warming of the planet.

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  • 29. 

    If you get a question about greenhouse gases or global warming on the exam. never forget to mention the enhanced greenhouse effect. What is it?

    • A.

      An increase in the greenouse effect caused by carbon dioxide

    • B.

      An increase in the greenhouse effect caused by cars

    • C.

      An increase in the greenhouse effect caused by human activities

    Correct Answer
    C. An increase in the greenhouse effect caused by human activities
    Explanation
    The enhanced greenhouse effect refers to an increase in the natural greenhouse effect caused by human activities. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, release large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases, including carbon dioxide, trap more heat from the sun, leading to an intensified greenhouse effect and ultimately contributing to global warming. It is important to mention the enhanced greenhouse effect when discussing greenhouse gases and global warming because it highlights the role of human activities in exacerbating the issue.

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  • 30. 

    “The energy required to raise the temperature of unit area of a planet’s surface by one degree” Defined above is [...] heat capacity

    Correct Answer
    surface
    Explanation
    Do not mix up with "specific heat capacity"!

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  • 31. 

    The coefficient which records the fractional change in volume per degree change in temperature is known as the coefficient of [...]

    Correct Answer
    volume expansion
    Explanation
    The coefficient of volume expansion measures the fractional change in volume for a given change in temperature. It quantifies how much a substance expands or contracts when its temperature changes. This coefficient is used to calculate the change in volume of a substance due to temperature variations, such as in thermal expansion calculations.

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  • 32. 

    “When the result of a change in a process is a further change of one of the constants involved” is a simply put definition of "feedback"

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The given statement defines feedback as the result of a change in a process leading to a further change in one of the constants involved. This means that feedback occurs when the outcome of a change in a system influences future changes in that system. Therefore, the statement is true.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 18, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Apr 04, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    IBLindman
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