Question

module 3 exam
cp chemistry a o / module 3: the atom

1. what happens to unstable nuclei? select all that apply.

they combine to form more stable nuclei.
they decay into more stable nuclei.
they emit radiation.
their mass decreases by 50% with each half - life.

Explanation:

• Unstable nuclei do not combine to form more stable nuclei. Instead, they decay.
• Unstable nuclei decay into more stable nuclei through radioactive decay.
• During radioactive decay, unstable nuclei emit radiation.
• The statement about mass decreasing by 50% with each half - life is a property of radioactive decay (for a sample of radioactive nuclei), which is related to the decay of unstable nuclei.

Answer:

They decay into more stable nuclei.
They emit radiation.
Their mass decreases by 50% with each half - life.