Radioactive decay

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-009864",
  "term": "Radioactive decay",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The spontaneous process by which an unstable atomic nucleus transforms into a more stable nucleus by emitting radiation. This transformation involves changes in the number of protons and neutrons, resulting in the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. The rate of decay is characteristic for each radionuclide.",
  "subject": "Analytical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "nuclear decay",
    "electron capture",
    "nucleus",
    "radiation",
    "spontaneous fission"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1994, 66, 2513. 'Nomenclature for radioanalytical chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)' on page 2518 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199466122513)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/radioactive-decay/"
}