Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Radioactivity and Transmutation?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Radioactivity and Transmutation?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between radioactivity and transmutation lies in the processes involved and the outcomes. Here are the key differences:

  1. Process: Radioactivity refers to the natural decay of unstable atomic nuclei, which involves the spontaneous emission of radiation. In contrast, transmutation is the alteration process of the nucleus of particular atoms, changing the substance from one element to another. It can be induced artificially through processes such as neutron capture or occur spontaneously by radioactive decay.
  2. Outcome: Radioactivity leads to the emission of radiation and the spontaneous decay of an unstable isotope. Transmutation, on the other hand, results in the conversion of one chemical element into another.

Both radioactivity and transmutation involve changes within the atomic nucleus. While radioactivity is a type of transmutation process, not all transmutation processes involve radioactivity.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Radioactivity and Transmutation?
  • Comparative Table: Radioactivity vs Transmutation

    • Comparative Table: Radioactivity vs Transmutation

    Here is a table comparing the differences between radioactivity and transmutation:

    Property Radioactivity Transmutation
    Definition Radioactivity refers to the spontaneous nuclear transformation of unstable elements, resulting in the release of energy and radiation. Transmutation refers to the change of one chemical element into another via either natural or artificial processes.
    Occurrence Radioactivity is a natural process that occurs spontaneously in radioactive isotopes. Transmutation through radioactive decay is a natural process, while transmutation through nuclear reactions can be induced artificially.
    Nuclear Changes Radioactivity involves the decay of unstable atomic nuclei, leading to the release of energy and radiation. Transmutation involves changes in the structure of atomic nuclei, which can result in the formation of new elements.
    Examples Radioactive decay of uranium is an example of radioactivity, where the atom undergoes a spontaneous nuclear reaction, emitting an alpha particle and forming thorium. Natural transmutation, such as the conversion of nitrogen into carbon-14 through cosmic ray bombardment, is an example of transmutation.
    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.