Is There a Connection Between Nuclear Physics and Chemistry?

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the relationship between nuclear physics and chemistry, with participants debating the relevance of nuclear processes to chemical properties. One participant argues that processes like inverse beta decay, while rooted in nuclear physics, are also relevant to chemistry due to their impact on atomic structure. Others assert that the chemical properties of substances are determined solely by their electronic structure, independent of nuclear structure. The conversation highlights the distinction between nuclear reactions and chemical reactions, emphasizing that while nuclear arrangements influence elemental identity, chemistry primarily concerns electron behavior. Ultimately, the participants remain divided on the extent to which nuclear physics informs chemical understanding.
  • #91
Thanks, chroot.
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Decay constant of Different Elements and Isotopes?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Nuclear knockout reactions - why does a proton knockout a neutron?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate "Reversal" of Nuclear Decay in Beta Emitters
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
What's the best major between Physics & Chemistry for entering MS in Nuclear Engineering?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
High School Zero J when Z and N are even (nuclear physics)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Undergrad Electron mass conversion during electron capture
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Nuclear Force Behavior: Confusing Isospin Dependence
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
High School How to calculate the nuclear repulsive force?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School What Are the Key Safety Concerns When Building a Fusor for Nuclear Fusion?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Separation energy of nucleons and Coulomb barrier
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K