Radioactive isotopes, also known as radioisotopes, are versions of an element that have extra neutrons in their nucleus, making them unstable. Because of this instability, they release energy in the form of radiation as they try to become stable. This process is called radioactive decay. Radioactive isotopes can be found naturally in the environment or made artificially in labs. They have various uses, such as in medicine for diagnosing and treating illnesses, in nuclear power plants for generating electricity, and in research for dating fossils. Some well-known radioactive isotopes include carbon-14, which is used in radiocarbon dating, and iodine-131, which is used in medical treatments.
Examiner-written GCSE Physics revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
Share this article
written revision resources that improve your