Why are Atoms Radioactive?
Most atoms are stable, this means that they will stay the same unless acted on by an external force. Some atoms however, are unstable. This means that they spontaneously lose energy by emitting either a particle or energy. When an unstable atom emits a particle it changes its mass or atomic number, which means that it can become either a new element or isotope. Unstable atoms are called radioactive and unstable isotopes are called radioisotopes.
Most radioisotopes are artificially produced, but there are some naturally occurring ones. At present there have been over 2000 radioisotopes identified.
Most radioisotopes are artificially produced, but there are some naturally occurring ones. At present there have been over 2000 radioisotopes identified.
What is the Difference between Radiation and Radioactivity?
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