In: Physics
Considering that by definition a mineral is an exact arrangement of very specific atoms in a very ordered crystal structure how do we account for the existence of radioactive isotopes. Could they be a proof of Chaos Theory? Is my idol, Albert wrong? Albert of E=MC2 and Quantum Physics.
Crystal structure has to do with the arrangement of atoms and molecules, which gives a mineral its phyaical properties.
The radioactive isotopes originate due to different number of nucleons in a nucleus (Nuclei of two isotopes contain same number of protons but different number of neutrons). If an isotope becomes unstable due to excess nucleons, or by some induced reaction, it becomes radioactive.
Thus, radioactive isotope is a phenomenon occurring at nuclear level, whereas , crystal structure ia a characteristic property pertaining to atomic and molecular level. The two things are not related to each other.
A given crystal may or may not contain stable / radioactive isotopes of a given element.
So, nor do we need Chaos theory to explain the existence of radioactive isotopes, neither the radioactivity has anything to do with crystal structure.