Nuclear Decay
Definition
Nuclear decay refers to the spontaneous transformation or disintegration of unstable atomic nuclei into more stable forms by emitting radiation.
Analogy
Picture nuclear decay as a game show elimination round. Unstable contestants (nuclei) compete against each other by emitting radiation (answers). Eventually, only the stable contestants remain, and the game show continues.
Related terms
Alpha Decay: A type of nuclear decay where an alpha particle (two protons and two neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus.
Beta Decay: A type of nuclear decay where a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from the nucleus.
Half-Life: The time it takes for half of a sample of radioactive material to undergo nuclear decay.
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