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Basically, it means that the structure of the atom has changed from a less stable state to a more stable state. Since the energy of the atom is reduced, something has to be emitted from it, whether a particle or some form of energy, usually both. Sometimes the decay requires some input from outside the atom, and sometimes it is spontaneous. There are many kinds of atomic decay.
Fission is one. In fission, the atom splits and two atoms are produced. Also a number of neutrons are emitted, and a lot of heat is produced.
Alpha decay is another. Alpha decay happens when the atom emits an alpha particle, which is essentially a helium ion moving very fast. This causes the atom to change from one element to another, the daughter element having an atomic number 2 less than that of the parent. Also, the isotope number is reduced by 4.
Beta decay is another. A beta particle is released, either positive or negative. If the beta decay is positive, it usually means a proton is turned into a neutron by capturing an electron from the atom's innermost shell; this reduces the atomic number by one, changing the element, but the isotope number stays the same and the emission is a neutrino. If the beta decay is negative, it means that an electron is emitted from the atom, then a neutron has to be converted to a proton, and the atomic number is increased by one, changing the atom to a new element; the isotope number stays the same, but the mass of the atom is reduced.
Gamma radiation is another. In gamma radiation, a very energetic photon called a gamma ray is released. This may happen at the same time as some other emission, or because of a change in the energy state of an atom, producing a different isomer. The mass of the atom is reduced very slightly, but if there is no other emission going on at the same time, the atomic number and isotope number remain the same (the more excited state is indicated by attaching a lower case m to the isotope number).
The atom might emit a neutron. This reduces the isotope number by 1.
There are other forms of decay, but these are probably the most important, and give a good idea of the sorts of things that go on.
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
A decayed atom is one that has undergone radioactive decay, where it releases energy and transforms into a different element or isotope. This process occurs as the nucleus becomes more stable by emitting radiation in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. Decay is a natural phenomenon that can result in the formation of a more stable atom over time.
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoit means that it has undergone radioactivity .. the nucleus changes from one element to another
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoIT means a rotting atom
Wiki User
∙ 8y agounstable, radioactive
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What does it mean if an atom has subscript in a chemical formula?
There is one atom of that element in the molecule.
What does it mean when an atom is electrically charged?
it means that the atom has an electrical charge running through it
What is a atom that's has lost electrons?
I don't know the answer, but your grammer is awful. I think you mean 'an atom'
What is another term for decayed organic matter?
Another term for decayed organic matter is "humus".
How many atoms are in a carbon atom?
I think you need to rephrase your question. The correct (if unhepful) answer is that one carbon atom comprises one atom. Did you mean to ask about protons, neutrons or electrons?
What does devastation mean?
The state of being decayed or destroyedDevastation means the state of being decayed or destroyed.
A 7 letter word for not preserved?
Decayed.
What does humaness mean?
the term humas refers to particles of decayed plant and animal material :)
When was A Decayed Family created?
A Decayed Family was created in 1874.
Is decayed an adjective?
The word "decayed" can be used as an adjective or as a past tense verb. In the sense of an adjective, it can be used to describe "a decayed tooth".
'It is you who has decayed' or 'it is you who have decayed' Which sentence is right?
"It is you who have decayed" is correct. In this case, "who" refers to the plural pronoun "you" which requires the plural form of the verb "have."
What do you use decayed animals for?
you use decayed animals for fertilizer and oil.
What is the meaning of decayed?
of Decay, Fallen, as to physical or social condition; affected with decay; rotten; as, decayed vegetation or vegetables; a decayed fortune or gentleman.
What is something that is not preserved?
Fresh fruits and vegetables are not preserved as they are perishable items that deteriorate quickly without preservation methods like canning or freezing.
When was The Restitution of Decayed Intelligence created?
The Restitution of Decayed Intelligence was created in 2003.
What does fungus mean?
A plant without leaves or flowers that grows on other plants or on decayed material,such as mushrooms and toadstools.
What is the term for the element that a radioactive isotope decay into?
The term for the element that a radioactive isotope decays into is called the "daughter product". During radioactive decay, the original isotope transforms into a different element or isotope through a series of decay reactions.
