Which statement best describes the effect of radioactive decay on a nucleus?
• The resulting nucleus is less stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original
• The resulting nucleus is more stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus must be of the same element as the original
• The resulting nucleus is less stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original
• The resulting nucleus is more stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original
The resulting nucleus is less stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original.
The correct statement is: The resulting nucleus is less stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original.
The correct statement is: The resulting nucleus is less stable than the original nucleus. The nucleus can be of a different element than the original.
Explanation: Radioactive decay refers to the spontaneous disintegration of an atomic nucleus, resulting in the emission of particles or electromagnetic radiation. During this process, the original nucleus transforms into a different nucleus, which can be of the same element or a different element. However, the resulting nucleus is generally less stable than the original nucleus because the decay occurred to achieve a more stable state. The emitted particles or radiation help the nucleus release excess energy and reach a more stable configuration.