What is a by product of radioactive decay?

Answer 1

The 3 things that can happen during radioactive decay is the 3 parts of decay: Alpha decay, Beta decay, and Gamma decay. In alpha decay, which is the weakest part of decay, it has a positive helium neuclus(2 protons and 2 neutrons), and the particles will burn your skin, but can be easily stopped by a peice of paper. This is the most ionising as the helium nucleus can take electrons from other atoms and make them unstable. This can give rise to cancers as it distorts cells. In Beta decay (an electron or a positron) is emitted. In the case of electron emission, it is referred to as "beta minus" (β−). It can be stopped by 3mm of aluminum. Gamma decay, which is the strongest, can only be stopped by 3cm of lead. It has electromagnetic waves, it contains the most energy, and therefore is the most penetrating, but normally it just passes straight through the human body. Radioactive decay can be very harmful, and its best to stay away. This question has been anwsered by Rae-Ann Salisbury.

Answer 2

One common byproduct of radioactive decay is radiation, which consists of particles and energy emitted from the decaying nucleus. This radiation can take the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays, depending on the type of radioactive decay occurring.

Answer 3

alpha particles, beta particles, gamma radiation