Radioactivity

Radioactivity is the property of some atomic nuclei to emit excess energy in the form of ionizing radiation. This radiation is a stream of elementary particles or electromagnetic waves.

Radioactive decay occurs spontaneously, without external influence. In this case, unstable atomic nuclei transform into the nuclei of other chemical elements, emitting excess energy. The decay rate for each radioactive isotope is constant and is determined by the half-life.

Ionizing radiation emitted during radioactive decay can disrupt the structure of atoms and molecules of a substance, causing their chemical transformations. This property of radioactivity is widely used in science, medicine and industry. However, radiation exposure in large doses is extremely dangerous for living organisms.