Nuclides — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Also Known As	Nuclide, nuclear species, specific isotope, radioactive or stable nuclide

What is Nuclides?

Atomic species characterized by specific numbers of protons (Z) and neutrons (N) in their nuclei. Each nuclide has a unique combination of atomic number and mass number. Stable nuclides do not undergo radioactive decay; unstable (radioactive) nuclides decay over time.

Properties & Characteristics

A nuclide is a species of atom characterised by its specific nuclear composition: a specific number of protons (Z, atomic number) and neutrons (N = A − Z, neutron number). Each nuclide is a specific nuclear entity — ¹²₆C and ¹³₆C are different nuclides of the same element (carbon). Nuclides can be stable (over 250 exist) or radioactive (~3000 known). The chart of nuclides (nuclear map) plots all known nuclides by N and Z.

Uses & Applications

Nuclide concepts are used in: nuclear medicine (specifying exactly which radioactive nuclide: ⁹⁹ᵐTc, ¹³¹I, ¹⁸F-FDG), nuclear physics research, radiometric dating (¹⁴C, ²³⁸U decay series), nuclear reactor design (choosing nuclides for fuel, moderators, shielding), and isotope geochemistry.

Safety Information

Individual nuclides differ enormously in radiation type, energy, and half-life. Selecting the correct nuclide for an application requires balancing desired properties (gamma energy for imaging, beta range for therapy) against radiation exposure to patients and staff. Incorrect nuclide use in medicine or research can cause serious harm.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Nuclides

Index All "N" terms

Synonyms Nuclide, nuclear species, specific isotope, radioactive or stable nuclide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nuclides?

Atomic species characterized by specific numbers of protons (Z) and neutrons (N) in their nuclei. Each nuclide has a unique combination of atomic number and mass number. Stable nuclides do not undergo radioactive decay; unstable (radioactive) nuclides decay over time.

What is Nuclides used for?

Is Nuclides hazardous?

More "N" Terms

N-type Semiconductor Nanotechnology Native State Natural Abundance Natural Radioactivity Negative Catalyst Neodymium Nd Neon Ne Neptunium Np Nernst Equation Nernst Equation E = E° − (RT/nF)lnQ; at 25°C: E = E° − (0.0592/n)log Q Net Ionic Equation

View all "N" terms →