Question

an article about half-lives describes a daughter isotope. what is a daughter isotope?
the isotope that forms from the radioactive decay of a less stable isotope
the isotope that forms from the radioactive decay of a more stable isotope
an isotope that undergoes radioactive decay to form a less stable isotope
an isotope that undergoes radioactive decay to form a more stable isotope

Explanation:

To determine the correct definition of a daughter isotope, we recall the concept of radioactive decay. A parent isotope (less stable) undergoes radioactive decay, and the isotope formed from this decay is the daughter isotope. Let's analyze each option:

• Option 1: "the isotope that forms from the radioactive decay of a less stable isotope" – This matches the definition of a daughter isotope, as the parent (less stable) decays to form the daughter.
• Option 2: A more stable isotope would not undergo decay to form a daughter (since it's more stable), so this is incorrect.
• Option 3: An isotope that undergoes decay is the parent, not the daughter, so this is incorrect.
• Option 4: The parent isotope undergoes decay to form a more stable isotope (the daughter), but this option describes the parent's action, not the daughter's definition. The daughter is the product, not the one undergoing decay.

Answer:

A. the isotope that forms from the radioactive decay of a less stable isotope