Which phrase describes one characteristic of radioactive elements
Which phrase describes one characteristic of radioactive elements
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
“They emit radiation as they decay into more stable forms.”
Explanation
Radioactive elements are substances whose atomic nuclei are unstable. This instability causes the nuclei to undergo a process known as radioactive decay, during which they release energy in the form of radiation. This radiation can take several forms, including alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.
The fundamental characteristic of radioactive elements is their tendency to transform into more stable nuclei over time. This transformation happens spontaneously and continues until a stable, non-radioactive isotope is formed. The time it takes for half of a sample of a radioactive substance to decay is called its half-life, and it can range from fractions of a second to millions of years, depending on the element.
For example, uranium-238, a naturally occurring radioactive element, decays over billions of years into lead-206, a stable element. As it decays, it emits radiation, which is a key identifier of all radioactive substances. This emission is not just a random process; it follows specific pathways and rules based on nuclear physics.
The radiation emitted by these elements can be harmful to living organisms, but it is also useful in many fields. In medicine, radioactive isotopes are used in cancer treatment (radiotherapy) and in diagnostic imaging (PET scans). In archaeology, the radioactive decay of carbon-14 is used to date ancient artifacts.
In summary, a defining characteristic of radioactive elements is that they emit radiation as they decay into more stable forms. This property is not only central to understanding nuclear physics but also plays a crucial role in numerous scientific, medical, and industrial applications. It highlights the dual nature of radiation—both dangerous and beneficial—depending on how it is managed and applied.
