Physical Science Chapter 8 Review - Nuclear Changes
Summarize the discoveries that led to the discovery of radioactivity.
Wihelm Rontgen-x-rays in 1895. Henri Becquerel discovered radioactivity -studying x-rays. Ernest Rutherford/Paul Villard 3 forms of decay-alpha, beta, gamma
What happens to an atom during radioactive decay?
Spontaneously emits particles, energy, or both from its nucleus in order to become more stable
Why are some isotopes stable while others are unstable & experience radioactive decay?
Strong forces holds P & N together in nucleus. Stable= proper ratio of N to P. Unstable= will decay nucleus with a lower energy state, which is more stable.