Question detail
Which of the following statements is true about radioactive decay?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
- A. It occurs at a constant rate for all isotopes.
- B. It is a predictable process for individual nuclei.
- C. It is a random process that cannot be predicted.
- D. It can be influenced by temperature changes.
Answer
The correct answer is C: It is a random process that cannot be predicted..
Explanation
The correct answer is C: It is a random process that cannot be predicted.. This supports the learning objective "Explain why it is impossible to predict when an individual unstable nucleus will decay." in Half-lives and the random nature of radioactive decay because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Atoms and nuclear radiation. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required Half-lives and the random nature of radioactive decay idea: It occurs at a constant rate for all isotopes.; It is a predictable process for individual nuclei.; It can be influenced by temperature changes..
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Predictability in Radioactive Decay
Students often believe that the decay of an individual unstable nucleus can be predicted based on its characteristics.
Emphasize that radioactive decay is a random process, and while the half-life can be determined for a large sample, the exact moment an individual nucleus will decay cannot be predicted.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.