Radioactivity is a natural phenomenon in which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves.
The emitted particles or waves are collectively referred to as ionizing radiation, as they can ionize atoms or molecules by removing tightly bound electrons, creating charged particles (ions).
Units of radioactivity
Becquerel (Bq): The SI unit of radioactivity, representing one nuclear decay per second.
Curie (Ci): An older unit where 1 Ci equals 3.7 × 10¹⁰ Bq.
These units measure the rate of radioactive decay, not the absorbed or equivalent dose.
Applications of Radioactivity
1) Nuclear power generation:
Nuclear reactors harness the energy released during the controlled decay of radioactive isotopes, such as uranium-235 and plutonium-239, to produce electricity.
2) Medical diagnosis and treatment:
Radiopharmaceuticals, which contain radioisotopes, are used in nuclear medicine for imaging and treating various diseases.
3) Archaeological and geological dating:
Radioactive decay can be used to determine the age of certain materials, such as carbon-14 dating for organic matter and potassium-argon dating for rocks.
4) Industrial applications:
Radioactive isotopes are used in various industries for measuring thickness, detecting leaks, and sterilizing equipment.