Chapter 15, Problem 1QC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Some isotopes are radioactive whereas, others are not is to be discussed.

Concept Introduction:

The isotopes are the atoms having the same number of protons $\left(Z\right)$ but different numbers of neutrons $\left(N\right)$ and mass number $\left(A\right)$ . The isotopes can be represented as $\text{X}$ .

Explanation of Solution

The isotopes are the atoms with different number of neutrons. They can be stable or unstable depending on the ratio of protons to neutrons.

The unstable atoms have an unstable ratio of protons and neutrons and thus, have an excess of energy or matter. So, for stability, they get rid of this excess energy or matter through decay. These unstable atoms are called radioactive isotopes.

Conclusion

The radioactive isotopes are always unstable.