Radioactive Decay Fundamentals

What is the primary reason for radioactive decay?

What type of decay involves the emission of high-energy gamma rays?

What type of radiation results in a new element with a mass number decreased by 4 and an atomic number decreased by 2?

What type of decay results in a new element with the same mass number and an atomic number increased or decreased by 1?

Which mode of radioactive decay involves the nucleus capturing an electron from the surrounding atom?

What is the time required for half of the original number of radioactive atoms to decay?

What affects the rate of radioactive decay?

What is the name of the radioactive decay law that describes the exponential decrease in the number of radioactive atoms over time?

What is the name of the process in which the nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy?

What determines the rate of decay in radioactive decay?

Radioactive Decay

Definition

Radioactive decay is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy and stability by emitting radiation.

Types of Radioactive Decay

Alpha Decay: Emission of alpha particles (2 protons and 2 neutrons) from the nucleus, resulting in a new element with a mass number decreased by 4 and an atomic number decreased by 2.
Beta Decay: Emission of beta particles (high-energy electrons or positrons) from the nucleus, resulting in a new element with the same mass number and an atomic number increased or decreased by 1.
Gamma Decay: Emission of high-energy gamma rays from the nucleus, resulting in no change to the element or its mass number.

Modes of Radioactive Decay

Spontaneous Fission: The nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy.
Electron Capture: The nucleus captures an electron from the surrounding atom, resulting in a new element with a mass number decreased by 1 and an atomic number decreased by 1.

Radioactive Decay Laws

First-Order Kinetics: The rate of decay is proportional to the number of unstable nuclei, resulting in an exponential decrease in the number of radioactive atoms over time.
Half-Life: The time required for half of the original number of radioactive atoms to decay.

Factors Affecting Radioactive Decay

Nuclear Stability: The stability of the nucleus affects the rate of decay.
Environmental Factors: Temperature, pressure, and chemical reactions can affect the rate of decay.

Applications of Radioactive Decay

Radioactive Dating: Used to determine the age of rocks and fossils.
Nuclear Medicine: Used to diagnose and treat diseases.
Food Irradiation: Used to preserve food and reduce bacteria.

Learn about the different types of radioactive decay, modes of decay, and laws governing decay. Understand factors affecting decay and applications of radioactive decay in medicine, dating, and food preservation.