Chapter 39, Problem 13A

When an atom undergoes radioactive decay, does it become a completely different element?

To determine

Whether an atom become completely different element due to radioactive decay of the atom.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Radioactive decay is the process in which an atom changed into other element due to transformation of atom into other atom.

The particles that occurred the radioactive decay are alpha particle, beta particle and gamma rays. The number of proton in an atom reduces by two due to decay of alpha particles. The number of proton in an atom increases by one due to decay of beta particle.

The composition of the nucleus changes due to variation in the number of proton in the nucleus. The completely different atom arises due to the radioactive decay of the atom.

Conclusion:

Thus, the atom becomes completely different atom in the radioactive decay due to variation in the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.