Interactive learning tool for understanding radioactive decay and nuclear stability
Radioactivity is a natural process through which unstable atomic nuclei undergo spontaneous transformations, emitting radiation in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves. This emission occurs in an attempt to achieve a more stable configuration.
An unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle (²⁴He nucleus: 2 protons + 2 neutrons). This reduces both the atomic number and mass number.
When it occurs: Elements with Z > 83 (beyond Bismuth)
A neutron transforms into a proton, emitting an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino. This increases the atomic number by 1 while maintaining the mass number.
When it occurs: Nuclides with excess neutrons (left of stability band)
A proton transforms into a neutron, emitting a positron (positive electron) and a neutrino. This decreases the atomic number by 1 while maintaining the mass number.
When it occurs: Nuclides with excess protons (right of stability band)
An inner shell electron is captured by the nucleus, combining with a proton to form a neutron and a neutrino. This also decreases the atomic number by 1.
When it occurs: Alternative to β⁺ for nuclides with excess protons
The band of stability is a region on the N vs Z graph where stable nuclides exist. Nuclides within this band have an optimal neutron-to-proton ratio:
Nuclides outside the band undergo radioactive decay to move toward stability.