Question

The decay constant of the end product of natural radioactive series is:
A. infinity
B. uncertain
C. zero
D. same as parent element

Answer 1

Hint: Radioactive decay (also known as nuclear decay, radioactivity, radioactive disintegration or nuclear disintegration) is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by radiation. A material containing unstable nuclei is considered radioactive. Three of the most common types of decay are alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay, all of which involve emitting one or more particles or photons.

Complete step by step answer:
The decaying nucleus is called the parent radionuclide (or parent radioisotope and the process produces at least one daughter nuclide. Except for gamma decay or internal conversion from a nuclear excited state, the decay is a nuclear transmutation resulting in a daughter containing a different number of protons or neutrons (or both). When the number of protons changes, an atom of a different chemical element is created. The decay constant is the rate at which there is a disintegration of the radioactive substance in a unit time. The decay constant of the end product of natural radioactive series is zero because at the end of the radioactive decay, the product formed is a stable one and will not undergo any further decay in the future.

Therefore, the option C is correct.

Note:
In a radioactive decay, the end product is always a stable element. This means that heavier elements break down into lighter elements and release particles with high velocity and some even have the tendency to pierce a thick wall of concrete (such as the gamma radiations). The radioactive emissions are harmful for health and should be handled carefully.