rádioaktív

Rádioaktív is a term that describes a phenomenon where certain unstable atomic nuclei spontaneously transform into more stable configurations. This transformation releases energy in the form of radiation, which can include alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. The rate at which these transformations occur is characterized by the half-life of the radioactive substance, which is the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Radioactivity occurs naturally in the Earth's crust, in the atmosphere, and even within living organisms. For example, potassium-40 is a naturally occurring radioactive isotope found in many foods. Humans are also exposed to cosmic radiation from space and radon gas, a radioactive gas that can accumulate in buildings.

Radioactive materials have various applications, including in medicine for diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment, in industry for sterilization and gauging thickness, and in scientific research for dating ancient artifacts and understanding geological processes. However, exposure to high levels of radiation can be harmful to living tissues and can increase the risk of developing certain diseases, including cancer. Therefore, strict safety protocols and regulations are in place to minimize exposure to radioactive sources.