How atom is unstable?

Answer 1

Radioactivity of certain atoms occurs because the energy state of the nucleus is increased above the lowest possible level for the components of the nucleus. The nucleus is in effect trying to achieve a lower energy level, by emitting energy in the form of radiation. Sometimes a long chain of decay exists before a stable nucleus emerges. The most common forms of decay are: 1. alpha decay-an alpha particle consists of two protons and two neutrons. Thus in alpha decay the atomic number of the nucleus reduces by two, and the atomic weight by four. 2. Beta decay-a beta particle is an electron or a positron. These are formed by decay of a neutron to a proton (beta minus) or a proton to a neutron (beta plus). Thus in beta decay the atomic number of the nucleus increases or decreases by one, the atomic weight remains constant. 3. Gamma decay-a gamma ray is a high energy photon which results from an excited state of a nucleus, without change in atomic number or atomic weight.

In all these cases the resulting nucleus has lower energy than the initial one.

Answer 2

An atom can be unstable due to an imbalance between the number of protons and neutrons in its nucleus. This imbalance can lead to radioactive decay, where the atom emits particles or energy in order to become more stable. Atoms with too many or too few electrons in their outer shell can also be unstable and may undergo chemical reactions to achieve a more stable configuration.

Answer 3

"In order to gain stability, it would try to convert this extra mass of neutrons into sub-particles which are thrown out of the atom." Basically by radioactive decay they gain stability.

Answer 4

Atoms whose nuclei decay by radioactivity.

Answer 5

A atom becomes unstable when there is an unequal amount of protons and neutrons (if there is more neutrons than protons, or vice-versa).

Answer 6

If an atom is deemed as unstable then it means that it has lost particles of energy. An atom will automatically try to regain and become stable again and so are donkeys nuts.

Answer 7

When it is heavier then Bismuth and/or when having the ratio of protons to neutrons different than the corresponding ratio to stability.

Answer 8

These are atoms with a high ratio neutrons/protons.

Answer 9

"Unstable" means that they will decay. Such atoms will eventually emit energy, and perhaps alpha or beta particles, while they convert to some other type of atom.

Answer 10

Unstable atoms are disintegrated.