Chapter 18, Problem 21KT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The key term corresponding to the definition “a nuclear reaction in which two light nuclei combine into a single nucleus” is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

Radioactive decay is the process that involves the emission of radiation by an unstable atomic nucleus. The atomic nucleus loses its energy. The process is spontaneous. The decay is accompanied by the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. All the elements which have an atomic number greater than $83$ are radioactive.

A radioactive decay series is a series of nuclear reaction in which an unstable radioisotope decays to form a stable isotope.