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Answer: An unstable nucleus (nuclei) contains a near excessive number of neutrons and can spontaneously break apart (radioactive decay) into one or more nuclei (combinations of: alpha, beta, element fission, charged or neutral, and much energy) all with a lighter state.

When a large number of atoms of the same isotope are observed they will have a statistically consistent half life.

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What is the primary reason an atoms nucleus is unstable?

Increasing the ratio neutrons/protons in the nucleus the atom become unstable.


How is a stable nucleus different to an unstable nucleus?

A stable nucleus is one which will not decay, whereas an unstable nucleus will decay at some point, which cannot be predicted as decay is a random process, by alpha or beta decay.


What is the term for an atom that has an unstable nucleus?

radioisotope


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.


Nuclear radiation refers to charged particles or energy emitted by an unstable what?

Nucleus


What is natural transmutation?

Change from unstable to stable nucleus.


Is radioactivity caused due to unstable nucleus?

Yes.


What does an unstable nucleus emit?

An unstable nucleus (radioactive isotope) may emit: alpha particles, beta particles, gamma radiations, electrons, positrons, X-rays, and neutrons, depending on which nucleus is doing the emitting.


What are the causes of decay?

An unstable nucleus, which can be caused by:excess of neutronsshortage of neutronsmetastable excited state of nucleus


What makes a nucleus unstable?

The strong nuclear force doesn't balance the electrostatic force.


When an unstable magnesium nucleus undergoes gamma decay the nucleus formed is that of what?

When an unstable magnesium nucleus undergoes gamma decay, it remains as a magnesium nucleus. Gamma decay does not change the atomic number or mass number of the nucleus, only releasing a gamma photon to reduce excess energy.


What happens to a nucleus of an unstable atom?

An unstable nucleus can undergo radioactive decay to become more stable. This can involve emitting radiation in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. The decay process results in a transformation of the nucleus into a different element or isotope.