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 when an unstable atom loses energy and particles over time, turning into a different element.