How to Tell if an element is radioactive

AI Thread Summary
An element with a neutron to proton (N/P) ratio of 1.2 or higher is generally considered radioactive, but there are exceptions, particularly among synthetic isotopes. Some synthetic isotopes, such as Cl-36 and P-32, have N/P ratios below 1.2 and are still radioactive due to their beta-emitting properties. The discussion highlights the distinction between naturally occurring radionuclides, which typically have higher N/P ratios, and synthetic isotopes that can be radioactive regardless of their N/P ratio. Identifying synthetic isotopes often requires familiarity with specific isotopes, as there is no simple trick to determine their synthetic nature.
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My teacher mentioned that if an element has a neutron to proton ratio of 1.2 or higher than the element is radioactive. He also said there is on exception to this when the N/P ratio is lower than 1.2, but i didnt understand him. I cannot find this one exception in my book or on the internet. Can someone please help me here?
 
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There are many synthetic isotopes with n/p < 1.2 that are beta emitters (eg: Cl-36, P-32). I don't know of any naturally occurring radionuclides with n/p < 1.2

Perhaps the folks over a Nuclear Engineering will have a better idea?
 
Yes, Yes that was it. I believe he said that if the isotope is synthetic it is radioactive. But, doesn't that meen all synthetic isotopes are radioactive. And how can i tell if a certain isotope is synthetic...? do you just have to know them or is there a trick.

Pardon my lack of chemistry knowledge, I am just starting.
 

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