Science Common Sense
1711 - How do unstable atomic nuclei release energy or transform into other atomic nuclei through radioactive decay.
Imagine an atom as a house with too many or too few people (particles) inside. To feel comfortable, the house (atom) wants to have just the right amount of people. When the house is too crowded or too empty, it gets unstable.
Unstable atomic nuclei release energy or transform into other atomic nuclei through a process called radioactive decay. There are three main ways this can happen:
- Alpha decay: When an atom has too many people (particles), it throws out 2 people (an alpha particle) to make room. This makes the atom more stable.
- Beta decay: When an atom has too few people (particles), it either adds a person (a beta particle) or turns one person into another type of person (beta particle) to balance the house.
- Gamma decay: When an atom has too much energy, it releases some of that energy as a gamma ray (like a powerful X-ray). This helps the atom feel more comfortable and stable.
After radioactive decay, the atom transforms into a new, more stable atom. It's like rearranging the furniture to make the house feel cozy and comfortable again.