How does electromagnetic force contribute to the radioactivity of an atom?

Question

Nova Adams · Accepted Answer

The electromagnetic force is involved in alpha and gamma forms of radioactivity.

Radioactivity comes in three flavors: gamma, beta, and alpha. The process of beta radioactivity requires the weak nuclear force and entails the conversion of a proton into a neutron or vice versa. The cause of alpha and gamma radiation is an excess of energy in the nucleus that must be released in order for it to enter its lowest energy state. The process by which a nucleus expels an alpha particle—a helium 4 nucleus with two protons and two neutrons—involves both the strong nuclear force and the electromagnetic force; the former releases binding energy that permits the formation of the alpha particle and is ejected by electromagnetic repulsion of the positively charged nucleus and alpha particle. This process typically happens in heavier elements. When a nucleus has too much energy, it releases photons, which are the electromagnetic force's carriers. This typically happens after alpha or beta decay to reduce the energy of the remaining nucleus.

Clara Avalos · Answer

undefined The electromagnetic force plays a crucial role in the stability of an atom's nucleus. In certain isotopes, the nucleus may become unstable due to an imbalance between the strong nuclear force and the electromagnetic force. This instability leads to radioactive decay, where the nucleus emits particles or radiation to achieve a more stable configuration. Examples of radioactive decay include alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay.