MCQ Detailed View

In nuclear chemistry, some elements naturally emit radioactive particles or radiation from their nuclei. These elements are called radioactive elements. Natural radioactivity occurs when the nuclei of certain atoms are unstable. To reach a stable state, these nuclei spontaneously emit alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma radiation.

Examples of radioactive elements include uranium, thorium, radium, and polonium. The emission of radiation changes the atomic number and mass of the element, transforming it into a different element or isotope. This process is called radioactive decay.

Other options are incorrect. “Radio elements” and “active elements” are not standard terms in chemistry for radioactive substances. “Nuclear elements” could refer to any element with a nucleus and does not specifically indicate radioactivity. The correct terminology in chemistry and physics is radioactive elements.

Radioactive elements are important in chemistry, physics, medicine, and industry. They are used in nuclear power, medical imaging, cancer treatment, and dating ancient objects. Understanding which elements are naturally radioactive helps students study atomic structure, decay processes, and safety precautions in laboratories and daily life.

In addition, learning about radioactive elements is crucial for understanding nuclear reactions, radiation hazards, and environmental impacts. Their behavior explains phenomena like alpha decay in radium, beta decay in carbon-14, and gamma emission in cobalt-60.

Thus, elements that emit natural radioactivity are correctly called radioactive elements, making this concept fundamental in physical chemistry, nuclear chemistry, and atomic science.