Some elements can be made unstable by changing the composition of the neutrons and the protons. The isotopes of the smaller atoms will have a shortage of neutrons and it may convert the neutrons into a proton by emitting a charge called positron. A positron is positively charged. An electron immediately attacks it and causes a gamma radiation. The neutron deficient atoms will also capture another electron producing X-ray radiation. Gamma radiation is known to have the highest level of electromagnetic radiation. X-rays are much less energetic compared to the gamma radiations.

Radioactive materials are also capable of nuclear fission. Radioactivity is actually a naturally occurring phenomenon in the universe and is responsible for making stars and planets. Some of the long lived radioactive elements are still found on the earth. Some elements decay very fast and disappear but some live very long. Natural radioactive elements are founded in fossils, rocks and mines. Men made radioactive elements are used in nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons. These are very dangerous and can stay in the environment for several hundreds of years. Radioactive elements are grouped according to their properties in the periodic table.

More Articles :

• Easy Way To Learn Periodic Table
• How Is The Periodic Table Arranged ?
• Radioactive Elements On Periodic Table
• Who Developed The Periodic Table ?
• Why Was It Necessary To Create A Periodic Table ?
• Why Was The Periodic Table Made ?