• Question: if an unstable atom is not contained what would happen ???

    Asked by to Pete on 27 Apr 2012. This question was also asked by .
    • Photo: Pete Etchells

      Pete Etchells answered on 27 Apr 2012:

      Hi assult1! Generally, if you have an unstable atom, it will try and make itself stable. It will do this by getting rid of neutrons or protons from its nucleus or converting one to the other, or releasing extra energy, until all of the forces inside the atom balance out. This process is known as radioactive decay. There are actually lots of radioactive elements, all of which decay in different ways, and they will emit things like alpha, beta and gamma radiation, as well as x-rays. If you are close to a radioactive source, depending on the type of radiation it is emitting it can be very harmful to your body, by damaging your internal organs and causing radiation sickness.

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