Radioaktivitás

Radioaktivitás is the spontaneous breakdown of atomic nuclei, releasing energy and particles. This phenomenon was discovered by Henri Becquerel in 1896 and further studied by Marie and Pierre Curie. Radioactive decay occurs when an unstable atom's nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. This radiation can take several forms, including alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays.

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, similar to a helium nucleus. Beta particles are energetic electrons or positrons. Gamma rays are high-energy photons, similar to X-rays but originating from the nucleus. The rate of radioactive decay is characterized by a half-life, which is the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay. Different isotopes have vastly different half-lives, ranging from fractions of a second to billions of years.

Radioactivity has various applications, including medical imaging and treatment (radiotherapy), industrial uses such as sterilization and gauging thickness, and in scientific research for dating ancient artifacts (radiometric dating). However, it also poses health risks due to the damaging effects of radiation on living tissues. Understanding and managing radioactivity is crucial for its safe and beneficial use.