Radioactive Decay
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Example:
Imagine you have a drawer stuffed to the brim with clothes, and every time you open it, a few items fall out. This is similar to radioactive decay, where an unstable atomic nucleus is like that overstuffed drawer, constantly shedding particles and energy to reach a more stable state. Just as the drawer releases clothes until it can close more comfortably, the nucleus emits particles and energy until it becomes more stable.
Practice Version
Radioactive Decay: The breakdown of an unstable atomic nucleus, this releases particles and energy. Radioactive decay. Radioactive decay is the process where an unstable atom releases energy and particles to become more stable.