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How does radioactive decay work?

Unstable nucleii undergo decay reactions in which particles and/or radiation are emitted and new daughter product/s are obtained. Thus, radioactive decay works by emission of particles and/or radiation. There are 3 common types of radioactive decay that elements undergo: alpha decay, beta decay and gamma decay. Alpha decay results in the emission of an alpha particle, which is nothing but a helium atom. In this process, the parent atom loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons; thus its atomic number decreases by 2 and mass number by 4. Beta decay is the emission of an electron. Beta decay is accompanied by an increase in the charge of the nucleus. Gamma decay is a result of the emission of gamma rays, which are nothing but electromagnetic radiation. Gamma decay does not change the charge or mass of the parent atom.


Radioactive decay is a natural process. Scientists and engineers also make use of it for various purposes, such as electricity and heat generation, making weapons, and medicinal applications.


Hope this helps.  

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