How Do You Spell NUCLEIDE?

1. A nucleide, also called a nuclide, is a term used in nuclear physics and chemistry to refer to a specific species of atom characterized by its particular number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. It is essentially a shorthand way to identify and describe a specific isotope of an element.

   Each nucleide has a unique combination of protons and neutrons, which determines its atomic mass and therefore its properties. For instance, carbon-14 is a well-known nucleide that contains six protons and eight neutrons. This configuration gives it a different atomic mass compared to the more common carbon-12 and carbon-13 isotopes, resulting in its distinct radioactive properties.

   The identification of nucleides is vital in understanding and studying nuclear processes, such as radioactivity and nuclear reactions. With over 3,000 known nucleides, scientists rely on these distinctions to categorize and describe the behavior of atoms in various contexts.

   Furthermore, nucleides play a significant role in fields such as radiology, nuclear medicine, and environmental science. By utilizing nucleides with specific properties, scientists can track and study radioactive material, diagnose medical conditions, and analyze the impact of nuclear accidents or contamination.

   In summary, a nucleide is a specific type of atom that can be uniquely identified by its number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. This concept is crucial for understanding nuclear processes and has practical applications in various scientific disciplines.

2. A compound of nuclein with a metallic oxide.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for NUCLEIDE

The word "nucleide" is formed by combining two terms: "nucleus" and "-ide".

- "Nucleus" comes from the Latin word "nucleus", meaning "kernel" or "central part". In the context of atomic structure, nucleus refers to the central core of an atom containing protons and neutrons.

- The suffix "-ide" is often used in chemistry to denote a compound or element. It is derived from the Greek suffix "-idēs", which indicates a member of a class or group. In this case, "-ide" is used to refer to an atomic species or individual element.

Thus, by combining "nucleus" and "-ide", the term "nucleide" is coined to describe an individual species of atomic nucleus. It is commonly used in nuclear physics and chemistry to refer to specific isotopes or nuclides.