Which of the following is an example of a radioisotope?

Prepare for the AALAS LATG Test. Study with interactive flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Achieve your certification goals!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an example of a radioisotope?

Explanation:
Radioisotopes are unstable forms of elements whose nuclei spontaneously decay, emitting radiation as they transform into more stable forms. Carbon-14 has an unstable nucleus and undergoes radioactive decay (beta decay) to nitrogen-14, which is why it is a radioisotope. The other isotopes listed—sodium-23, hydrogen-1, and oxygen-16—are stable and do not emit radiation under normal conditions, so they are not radioisotopes. Carbon-14’s radioactivity is what makes it useful in dating and tracing contexts.

Radioisotopes are unstable forms of elements whose nuclei spontaneously decay, emitting radiation as they transform into more stable forms. Carbon-14 has an unstable nucleus and undergoes radioactive decay (beta decay) to nitrogen-14, which is why it is a radioisotope. The other isotopes listed—sodium-23, hydrogen-1, and oxygen-16—are stable and do not emit radiation under normal conditions, so they are not radioisotopes. Carbon-14’s radioactivity is what makes it useful in dating and tracing contexts.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy