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Radioactive decay affects the nucleus of an atom by causing it to become unstable, leading to the emission of radiation in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves. This process can result in the transformation of the original nucleus into a different element or isotope, as it releases energy and particles such as alpha or beta particles and gamma rays. Over time, this decay alters the composition of the nucleus, affecting the atom's chemical properties and stability. Ultimately, the changes can lead to the atom reaching a stable state or further undergoing decay.

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1mo ago

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When a radioactive nucleus decays and forms a new nucleus is the new nucleus always radioactive?

No. A stable nucleus can form. If the new nucleus is radioactive, then it will contiue to decay until a non radioactive nucleus is attained.


When a different kind element that radioactive is mixed with another element that not radioactive does it react?

Of course. Chemistry still applies, and that is based on the electron configuration, not the nucleus, per se.


What does it mean if an element is radioacitive?

If an element is radioactive, it refers to the stability of their atomic nucleus. If that atomic nucleus is not stable, it is considered radioactive.


What is the effect of pressure on the rate of radioactive decay?

Pressure does not have a significant effect on the rate of radioactive decay, as it is mainly influenced by the instability of the nucleus of the atom. The decay process is determined by the nuclear forces within the atom, which are not significantly affected by external pressure changes.


Why dont radioactive elements have a stable nucleus?

By definition. If it were stable, then it would not be radioactive.


The nucleus or atom left behind when a nucleus disintegrates or splits is?

Sometimes radioactive


What is An unstable isotope is called what?

It isn't really an ELEMENT that is unstable, but an ISOTOPE. That means that in general, for the same element, some atoms will decay, and some will not - the difference being the number of neutrons in the nucleus.


What makes a nucleus radioactive?

If you are referring to a cell's nucleus than the simple answer is that's not radioactive. Radioactivity occurs when elemental atoms become unstable due to the loss or gain of additional neutrons; these unstable atoms are referred to as radioactive isotopes. If a cell's nucleus were radioactive it would not last very long, its structure and function would quickly degrade and collapse.


What is an unstable nucleus that starts a decay process called?

A nucleus that starts to decay is called a radioactive nucleus or atom. It decays with a known and unique half life by several processes including but not limited to beta decay, alpha decay, electron capture decay, and positron emission.


What is the best definition of radioactive decay?

Radioactive decay is the spontaneous breakdown of a nucleus into smaller parts.


Is the best definition of radioactive decay?

Radioactive decay is the spontaneous breakdown of a nucleus into smaller parts.


What is when the nucleus of an atom decomposes called?

radioactive decay