Any combination of nucleons which gives these numbers provides a more stable isotope. Isotopes containing both a magic number of protons and neutrons are especially stable. Unstable isotopes will often change in such a way as to become like one of the stable isotopes. Binding Energy-the energy released when a nucleus is formed from its constituent parts. D. Half-Life and Radiochemical Dating 1.
Radioisotopes decay at a constant rate which can be determined experimentally.
The unit of measure is disintegrations per time. Radiochemical Dating-carbon 14 is the most commonly used method. E. Artificial Transmutation of Elements -one element can be converted to another by bombardment of a nucleus with a particle or another nucleus. Nuclear Fission-the formation of smaller nuclei from larger nuclei with the production of neutrons and energy. Nuclear Fusion-combination of lighter elements to form heavier ones, energy is produced.