Answer to Question: Why to atoms decay?

This is a REALLY quick and on-the-stop answer to why atoms decay. I should do a more in-depth video about this.

[Anti-proton]

I hadn't meant to go deeply into the topic.

Atoms decay because their atomic boundaries can be overcome, probabilistic, due to quantum tunneling (alpha) or because the quantum waveform of a quark in a proton or neutron finds a more stable configuration which it might fall into (probabilistic) and does so, releasing the change in momentum as a beta (beta decay).

The strong force being overcome is what creates mesons when atoms are sheared apart (cosmic rays)

cont...

[Anti-proton]

Correct!

I couldn't recall it on the stop. Normally, I deal with Bi210 and Bi214, so the "stable" version escapes me. In all reality, "stable" bismuth is effectively stable with a half-life somewhere near 10^19 years lol

[Anti-proton]

I hope that when I rediscover what I already said stated in some simpler fashion (which agrees with my physics book sitting beside me) I don't kick myself too hard. Both my physics books and my quantum physics books seem to think it's due to the weak nuclear force (which I explained) but who knows what else it could be, right?

Atoms are matter waves and conform to a set of numbers which govern their states, which exist as probability vectors... All of which are beyond the scope of this answer

[PetraKann]

HOW atoms decay is a distinctly different question from WHY atoms decay.

You can answer the question of HOW atoms decay in numerous ways - all with their level of theoretical and observational support and validation.

But as to the question of WHY atoms decay, you would summise that there is perhaps only one satisfactory answer

(even if its supremely simple and intuitive - although there is still the possibility that Humans havent quite grasped the real reason(s) as to WHY atoms decay)

[Anti-proton]

(...cont) which is the reason they mesons exist... if energy from the strong force diminished via distance inverse square, the result would be free quarks and a breakdown of hadron matter. Of course this cannot be...

[MarkRose]

Bismuth-209, the only natural isotope. :-)

[Anti-proton]

I have done so several times! =)
When going through security, be sure and put the Geiger counter in plain view in a plastic bucket by itself. The TSA won't be worried if you show it.

When using on the plane, remember that people don't know what it is and you don't want to scare them. I suggest keeping a low profile to avoid scaring people. You will be amazed at counts of 600-800 CPM when flying! Super fun!

My video showing this: watch?v=RwYs0Ue4SbI =)

[michaeljordon]

Why can't an atom give of one proton and one neutron or more than one electron
Why does it always have to be an alpha decay or a beta decay where it gives of 2 protons and 2 neutrons or 1 electron

Also, why can't uranium undergo a beta decay? U 238 always first undergoes an alpha decay

[iSuperiorReviews]

I don't fell very safe with 600-800 CPM Gamma radiation?!? Also I saw on your website about the new full body scanners with electron dislodging that doesn't sound very good... And are the metal detectors use x-ray when you walk through?

[PetraKann]

...the strong nuclear force becomes repulsive in nature when the neutron and proton are very close together - kind of limits the size of the atom - or should i say provides a limit for how small the nucleus of the atom can become.

The fundamental reason that atoms decay is a rather simple one

You will kick yourself when you discover it

[iSuperiorReviews]

hey tom do you think it would be ok to take the inspector exp on a plane?

[Anti-proton]

You cannot explain complex systems like atoms to people who have not deeply explored their true nature by speaking of wave forms, state vectors, or QCBE. You need to start with simple and easy to understand ideas, like point particles which move in a more classical way. If the person wishes, they can then move on to more complex understandings.

This is how you teach; start simple, work your way up.

Also, I have seen a proton... we are partially made of them and I see myself.

[Anti-proton]

Why and how a quantum and probabilistic event occurs are both the same: because there is a non zero probability... and given time. Atoms do not have free will and do not choose to do anything. The decay of an atom is, and has been observationally confirmed for nearly 100 years, the result of a probabilistic event.

If you know of a way beyond science, prove it and get collect your noble. I am going to side with physics on this one. Perhaps I am wrong, but I'll stick with science.

[joelb]

Why to Tom from Antiprotons not know engrish?

[PetraKann]

You didnt really explain WHY atoms decay

You also didnt mention the important fact that at very small distances the nuclear force become repulsive in nature rather than attractive.

I am also not clear as to how you described the strong nuclear force as increasing as the neutron and proton are moved apart - is clearly not the case, care to elabortate on this point further?

[elepok]

Dude, you can't explain things with mythology of atom created by the Greeks and perpetuated by modern science.Have you seen a proton?Wake up