Radioactive decay is -

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

Radioactive decay is a natural and spontaneous process where an unstable atomic nucleus emits radiation to become more stable.
This process occurs without any external influence like bombardment, temperature, or pressure changes.
The key characteristics are that it is 'spontaneous' and involves 'unstable atoms' releasing 'radiation'.

Option A: This describes an induced nuclear reaction, not spontaneous decay. Bombardment forces a change, whereas radioactive decay is a natural process.
Option C: Similar to option A, this describes an induced nuclear reaction using alpha particles, which is an artificial process, not the natural phenomenon of radioactive decay.
Option D: This refers to controlled nuclear fission, the process used in nuclear power plants. It is a managed chain reaction, distinct from the random, spontaneous decay of individual atoms.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and characteristics of radioactive decay as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding radioactive decay is fundamental for nurses working in oncology, radiology, and nuclear medicine, where radioisotopes are used for diagnosis (e.g., PET scans) and treatment (e.g., radiotherapy).
Nurses must follow strict safety protocols (time, distance, shielding) when handling radioactive materials or caring for patients undergoing radiation therapy to minimize their own exposure.
What if? If a patient is receiving brachytherapy (internal radiation), the nurse's primary concern shifts from external exposure to managing the radioactive source within the patient and handling bodily fluids, which may be radioactive, according to specific protocols.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question stem: 'Radioactive decay'.
Recall the fundamental definition of this process. The key term is 'spontaneous' or 'natural'.
Evaluate each option against this core definition.
Options A and C mention 'bombardment,' which implies an external, non-spontaneous action. Eliminate these.
Option D mentions a 'controlled medium,' which points to an artificial process like a nuclear reactor, not natural decay. Eliminate this.
Option B aligns perfectly with the definition of a spontaneous process involving unstable atoms and radiation emission, making it the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Biochemistry for medical StudentsDM Vasudevan Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 240-463 of 478) p. 177-179

Practise the full UPPSC 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.