Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

radioactive

adjective

/ˌreɪ.di.oʊˈæk.tɪv/

Definition

Emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation or particles.

Examples

The radioactive substance was handled with extreme care in the laboratory.
Some rocks and minerals are naturally radioactive.
Radioactive waste must be stored safely to protect human health and the environment.

Meaning

The term ‘radioactive’ describes materials that release energy in the form of radiation, which can be in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. This property occurs when the nuclei of atoms are unstable and decay over time.