Random nature of radioactive decay
What Random nature of radioactive decay means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Random nature of radioactive decay
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Random nature of radioactive decay in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
You cannot predict when any particular unstable nucleus will decay, nor which nucleus in a sample will decay next.
Decay is random, so a detector cannot predict when the next decay occurs and repeat readings vary slightly.
Individual nuclei decay unpredictably, but large numbers give a smooth, predictable halving pattern.
Topics that use Random nature of radioactive decay
- Half-lives and the random nature of radioactive decay (AQA GCSE)
- Radioactive decay and nuclear radiation (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Activity
- Alpha radiation
- Becquerel
- Beta radiation
- Count rate
- Experimental variation and reliability of measurements
- Gamma radiation
- half-life
Using Random nature of radioactive decay in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Combined Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge