Question

Which statement is true of unstable isotopes?

A)Nuclei of light elements are very unstable.B)The nuclei of atoms that are the most unstable have proton to neutron ratios of 1 to 1.C)An unstable atom is an atom that has enough binding energy to hold the nucleus together permanently.D)An unstable isotope is one that undergoes spontaneous nuclear decay and is referred to as a radioisotope.

Answer 1

Answer: The correct answer is Option D.

Step-by-step explanation:

Unstable isotopes are defined as the isotopes which have excess of neutrons as compared to the stable form of the nucleus of an atom.

These isotopes attain stability by undergoing a spontaneous nuclear decay. The isotopes which are unstable have another name and are known as radioactive isotopes or radioisotopes.

These isotopes undergoes decay by 4 processes: Alpha decay, beta decay, gamma emission and positron decay.

Hence, the correct answer is option D.