Radioactive decay is a random and spontaneous process. Explain what is meant by the terms 'random' and 'spontaneous' in the context of radioactive decay, and state one factor that does NOT affect the rate of radioactive decay.

Eduqas GCSE Physics — 2.4 The atom, the nucleus and radioactivity · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Random means it is impossible to predict which nucleus will decay next (or when any particular nucleus will decay).\nSpontaneous means the decay happens without any external trigger or cause.\nOne factor that does NOT affect the rate of radioactive decay is temperature, because the decay is a nuclear process and is unaffected by conditions outside the nucleus.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact wording ‘random’ and ‘spontaneous’ as defined in the mark scheme.
  • Give a clear example of a factor that does not affect decay, e.g. temperature, and briefly explain why.
  • Keep the answer concise – one sentence each for the definitions and the factor.”]
  • common_mistakes

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Random means it is impossible to predict which nucleus will decay next (or when any particular nucleus will decay)
  2. Spontaneous means the decay happens without any external trigger / cause
  3. Correct statement of one factor that does not affect the rate of decay — e.g. temperature
  4. Correct justification or elaboration linked to the stated factor — e.g. changing the temperature does not alter nuclear stability because decay is a nuclear process unaffected by conditions outside the nucleus

Key terms in this question

random · spontaneous · radioactive decay

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