Question

On the basis of your research, respond to the following:

Why and how does atomic nuclear decay take place? Explain.

What is the significance of atomic nuclear decay?

What is your analysis on the societal implications of using this process?

Answer 1

Atomic nuclear decay, or Radioactive decay, “is the process during which one radioactive nuclide changes into a different nuclide. This is accompanied by the emission of alpha, beta, and gamma rays, or by electron capture”.

It is significant because it allows us advancements in treating diseases, such as PET and CAT scans. It helps us create large amounts of energy with as proportionate pollution and create weapons for our militaries, both of which have their controversies. (Can be further described in our readings Radioactivity in Diagnosis and Nuclear Power Plants.) From everything I have ever learned on atomic anatomy the energy that binds the nucleus is unimaginable to me. The process that defies that to take in and out a particle kind of scares me and seems unstable itself. Obviously if not closely monitored and regulated the social implications could be catastrophic if one of the plants where this takes place were to be impaired.

Alpha Decay: Helium nuclei leave the nucleus of a larger isotope, forming a smaller one. After leaving the nucleus the helium nuclei are then called alpha particles. This means the atomic number is decreased by two and the atomic mass by four.

Beta Decay: A process that can be used to help an unstable atoms to become more stable, depending on the electrons.

Beta-minus decay- Atom will transform from one to another when electron is expelled and a nucleic neutron becomes a proton. Ex: Carbon > Nitrogen.

Beta-plus decay- positron e⁺, leaves and proton turns to neutron. One less proton, which would make Carbon then Boron.

Electron Capture: “When an electron is absorbed by the nucleus of an atom, causing the atomic number to decrease by one and the atomic mass to stay unchanged”

significance:

Sterilization of medical equipment to kill microorganisms that can cause contamination and disease. It is used to take x-rays in medical offices throughout the country. In fact I went to the dentist recently and had a x-ray done of my teeth. We are able to use concentrated beams of radiation to kill cancer cells and save lives. Computed tomography (CT scans) account for nearly 5% of all diagnostic radiology procedures. When radioactivity is used as a treatment rather than a part of the diagnosis the target cells receive larger doses. One example of treatment being the use of the radionuclide iodine-131 to treat hyperthyroidism.

Social Implications:

You can use it wisely (to cure cancer) or stupidly (to kill people), or not at all.