Chem 2500 Tulane Exam 1 (100% Correct Solutions).

Biological Effects of Neutrons {Ans: Neutrons interact with matter by penetrating the electron shells and reacting directly with the nuclei of matter, displacing them and causing ionization or producing radioisotopes, which in turn release ionizing radiation. Neutrons decay spontaneously, with a half life of 12 minutes, into protons and electrons, and are therefore of concern only in the immediate vicinity of nuclear reactions.}"avaliable" energy resources {Ans: the availability of these resources depends on the cost and energy needed to extract and process these resources.}Photovoltaic Conversion of Sunlight {Ans: Light is absorbed into a PV material and positive and negative charges are created. These charges can be collected by electrodes on either side and passed to an external electric circuit. The most highly developed photovoltaic material is SILICON. Advantages: Simplicity and versatility. Portable, great for local use, great for developing countries: pumping water into villages, likestock, irrigation refrigeration for preservation of perishables (food, healthcare) recharging flashlights lighting homes and using appliances Disadvantages: pretty expensive for developing countries. In the US it is cost-competitive with power lines}Nucleus (Nuclei) {Ans: composed of protons and neutrons (the nucleons)}radioisotopes {Ans: isotopes that are unstable in respect to nuclear decay}Radioactivity