Radioactive Decay is a Random Process Flashcards
1
Q
When do the nuclei of unstable isotopes break down?
A
At random
2
Q
What can you do to make a decay happen?
A
Nothing
3
Q
When does each nucleus decay?
A
Quite spontaneously in its own good time
4
Q
How radioactive decay affected by physical conditions e.g temperature or chemical bonding?
A
It isn’t stupid
5
Q
What happens when the nucleus does decay?
A
It spits out one or more types of radiation - alpha, beta and gamma or neutrons
6
Q
What happens in the process?
A
The nucleus often changes into a new element
