Radioactive

Definition

Radioactive refers to the property of certain elements or isotopes emitting radiation as they undergo spontaneous decay. This process leads to the emission of particles or electromagnetic waves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radioactive decay can result in the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays.
2. The rate of radioactive decay is measured in terms of half-life, which is the time it takes for half of a sample to decay.
3. $^{238}U$ (uranium-238) and $^{14}C$ (carbon-14) are common examples of radioactive isotopes used in dating methods.
4. Radiation can ionize atoms, potentially causing damage to biological tissues and DNA.
5. Geiger counters and scintillation detectors are commonly used instruments for measuring radioactivity.

Related terms

Half-Life: The time required for half the nuclei in a sample of a specific isotope to undergo radioactive decay.

Alpha Particle: A type of ionizing radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons emitted from the nucleus during radioactive decay.

Gamma Ray:

High-energy electromagnetic waves emitted by certain radionuclides during radioactive decay.