Which statement describes radioactive decay?(1 point)
Responses
An stable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become less stable.
An stable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become less stable.
An unstable nucleus takes in particles or energy to become more stable.
An unstable nucleus takes in particles or energy to become more stable.
An unstable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become more stable.
An unstable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become more stable.
A stable nucleus takes in particles or energy to become less stable.
An unstable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become more stable.
An unstable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become more stable.
The correct statement describing radioactive decay is: "An unstable nucleus gives off particles or energy to become more stable."
To understand why this statement is true, we need to understand the concept of radioactive decay. Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus spontaneously undergoes a transformation to become more stable. This transformation involves the emission of particles or energy.
When an atomic nucleus is unstable, it means that the forces within the nucleus are not balanced. It has an excess of either protons or neutrons, which creates an imbalance and leads to an unstable state. In order to achieve a more stable state, the nucleus must release this excess energy or particles.
During radioactive decay, the unstable nucleus can emit different types of particles, such as alpha particles (consisting of two protons and two neutrons) or beta particles (electrons or positrons). It can also release energy in the form of gamma rays, which are high-energy photons.
By emitting these particles or energy, the unstable nucleus loses some mass and/or energy. This loss of mass and energy allows it to achieve a more stable state. The process continues until the nucleus reaches a state of stability, where its particles and energies are in a balanced state.
In summary, radioactive decay occurs when an unstable atomic nucleus releases particles or energy in order to become more stable.