Natural Radioactivity
What is Natural Radioactivity?
Natural radioactivity is the spontaneous emission of radiation (alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays) from unstable atomic nuclei of naturally occurring isotopes without any external stimulation. It was discovered by Henri Becquerel in 1896 and is a property of heavy elements such as uranium, radium, and thorium, as well as lighter nuclides like carbon-14 and potassium-40. Natural radioactivity is the basis of radiometric dating methods used in geology and archaeology.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Natural radioactivity is the spontaneous emission of radiation (alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays) from unstable atomic nuclei of naturally occurring isotopes without any external stimulation. It was discovered by Henri Becquerel in 1896 and is a property of heavy elements such as uranium, radium, and thorium, as well as lighter nuclides like carbon-14 and potassium-40. Natural radioactivity is the basis of radiometric dating methods used in geology and archaeology.