Question

Which statements best describe the process of radioactive decay? Check all that apply.

An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different element that is unstable.
An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different element that is stable.
A stable isotope changes until it reaches a different element that is unstable.
A stable isotope changes until it reaches a different element that is stable.
An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different isotope of the same element that is unstable.
An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different isotope of the same element that is stable.

Answer 1

The following statements best describe the process of radioactive decay:

1. An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different element that is stable.
2. An unstable isotope changes until it reaches a different isotope of the same element that is stable.

Radioactive decay typically involves an unstable isotope (parent) transforming into a more stable isotope (daughter), which can be a different element or a different isotope of the same element.