Not all isotopes are stable Stable isotopes have… 1:1 ratio of n0 to p+ (for elements <20) 1.5:1 ratio of n0 to p+ (for elements >20)
Radioisotopes- unstable nucleus – they are radioactive the nucleus of element emits subatomic particles and/or electromagnetic waves… by emitting these particles, nucleus changes into different element (it’s trying to become more stable)
Why is this a big deal?
These subatomic particles that are emitted were discovered around 1900 Alpha rays Beta rays Gamma rays
Radioactivity – Rutherford again!
Penetration & Shielding
Alpha Beta Gamma Symbol Sign Charge Penetrating Power
Radioactivity