|
The nuclei of radioactive isotopes are unstable and undergo random
disintegration to produce atoms of different elements. In the course of
this breakdown, energetic subatomic particles are emitted. These
particles include α-particles (2 protons and 2 neutrons) and β-particles
(electrons). High-energy radiation (γ-rays or X-rays) may also be
emitted. Each radioisotope is characterized by its half-life, the time
in which 50% of the atoms in a radioactive sample will decay.
|
