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Objection - assumes facts not in evidence.
Okay, 14C actually is radioactive, but the even lower mass 13C and 12C are not. So it has nothing to do with being "smaller".
It's possible that by "smaller" you're referring to the neutron capture cross section: I doubt it, but it's possible. If so, then you should realize that what you're asking is basically "Why is something that's unlikely to capture a neutron (because it already has so many that it's actively trying to get rid of one) unlikely to capture a neutron (i.e. has a low neutron capture cross section)".
Smaller nuclei like carbon-14 can be radioactive because they have an unstable ratio of protons to neutrons in their nucleus. This imbalance leads to excess internal energy, causing the nucleus to decay and emit radiation in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves in order to become more stable.
The Surface tension force holding the large nucleus together is lnot as strong relative to the repelling force of the protons as in a smaller nucleus.
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Why are actinides radioactive?
Actinides are radioactive because they have unstable atomic nuclei that tend to undergo nuclear decay by emitting radiation in the form of alpha, beta, or gamma rays. This radioactive decay process results in the transformation of actinides into other elements, often leading to the formation of stable isotopes over time.
Why is helium mixed with radioactive minerals?
Helium is produced as a byproduct of radioactive decay in minerals like uranium and thorium. These minerals contain alpha particles, which are essentially helium nuclei. As these alpha particles are emitted during decay, they capture electrons from their surroundings to become helium atoms. This is why helium is often found mixed with radioactive minerals.
Is a gamma ray a natural ray?
Yes, gamma rays are a type of natural radiation that are generated by radioactive materials or processes such as nuclear fission. They have the shortest wavelength and highest frequency among electromagnetic waves, and can be emitted from sources like stars, supernovae, and radioactive decay.
Is gasoline radioactive?
Oil is not generally radioactive unless it was originally located near radioactive material when it was extracted. More often, it only becomes radioactive when exposed to or stored near radioactive materials post processing.
Splitting heavy atoms is fission?
Splitting heavy atoms, such as uranium or plutonium, into smaller nuclei is known as fission. This process releases a large amount of energy in the form of heat and gamma radiation, often used in nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.
What counts radioactive material?
Radioactive materials are substances that contain unstable nuclei that can undergo radioactive decay, releasing energy in the form of radiation. Common examples include uranium, plutonium, and radium.
Why are actinides radioactive?
Actinides are radioactive because they have unstable atomic nuclei that tend to undergo nuclear decay by emitting radiation in the form of alpha, beta, or gamma rays. This radioactive decay process results in the transformation of actinides into other elements, often leading to the formation of stable isotopes over time.
Isotopes with unstable nuclei are?
Isotopes with unstable nuclei are radioactive and can undergo radioactive decay to achieve a more stable state. This decay process involves the release of radiation such as alpha or beta particles. The unstable isotopes are often used in various applications, including medicine and energy production.
What is the difference between a stable and unstable nucleus?
In most atoms the protons and neutrons found in the nucleus are held together strongly. The nuclei of these atoms are said to be stable. However, the neutrons and protons in some atoms are not held together as strongly. These nuclei are unstable and will eventually disintegrate, forming other elements. Isotopes that are unstable are said to be radioactive and are called radioactive isotopes or radioisotopes.
What is the activity of a radioactive substance?
any one or a combination of radioactive substances that gives off photons that are usually considered harmful to humans and other life forms
Can a radioactive object make another object radioactive when it touches it?
Yes, a radioactive object can make another object radioactive when they come into contact if the first object transfers some of its radioactive material to the second object. This can happen through processes like contamination or activation. The extent of the second object's radioactivity will depend on factors such as the duration of contact and the type of radioactive material involved.
Why is helium mixed with radioactive minerals?
Helium is produced as a byproduct of radioactive decay in minerals like uranium and thorium. These minerals contain alpha particles, which are essentially helium nuclei. As these alpha particles are emitted during decay, they capture electrons from their surroundings to become helium atoms. This is why helium is often found mixed with radioactive minerals.
Is a gamma ray a natural ray?
Yes, gamma rays are a type of natural radiation that are generated by radioactive materials or processes such as nuclear fission. They have the shortest wavelength and highest frequency among electromagnetic waves, and can be emitted from sources like stars, supernovae, and radioactive decay.
What is Perinuclear Halo?
often used for shrinking of the nucleus and condesation of chromatin. vaculated area often formed around the shrunken and pyknotic nuclei . shrinking of the nuclei include the membrane ...that`s why the term perinuclear!!
Whats the word for cells with many nuclei?
The term for cells with many nuclei is "syncytial cells."
Why is the age of a gold ingot is often mentioned because Gold is not radioactive?
natural isotope of gold is 197 and he is stable element and not with radioactive decay why the gold ingot are often associated with age?
The atoms that remain after a nucleus disintegrates is?
smaller then the original atom and possibly radioative
