Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus releases energy in the form of radiation, causing the nucleus to transform into a more stable state.
Radioactive decay occurs when an atom's nucleus has too many protons or neutrons, making it unstable. In order to become more stable, the atom will emit particles or energy until it reaches a more balanced state.
The three types of radiation emitted during radioactive decay are alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Alpha particles are made up of two protons and two neutrons, beta particles are high-energy electrons, and gamma rays are high-energy photons.
The rate of radioactive decay can be affected by the type of nucleus, the amount of the substance present, and the external environment (such as temperature and pressure). Additionally, some substances can undergo radioactive decay at a faster rate than others.
Radioactive decay has many practical applications, such as in nuclear power plants for generating electricity, in medical imaging for diagnosis and treatment, and in carbon dating to determine the age of artifacts and fossils. It is also used in industrial processes and scientific research.