Scientists Detect Proton Emission In Rare Astatine-188 Isotope At University Of Jyväskylä

Scientists at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland detected and measured the half-life of the 188At (Astatine) isotope which decayed by emitting a proton.

What is Proton Emission?

Proton emission is a rare form of radioactive decay in which an unstable nucleus ejects a proton to become more stable.
Why Proton Emission Happens?
- When too many protons are added to a nucleus, it reaches a point where the last proton cannot stay bound and “drips” away.
- This results in proton emission, which is difficult to observe and study due to the rare production and short lifespan of such nuclei.
How Is It Different from Other Decay Types?
- Most radioactive decay involves alpha, beta, or gamma emissions.
- Proton emission, however, directly ejects a single proton, making it much rarer.
- Examples of Proton-Emitting Isotopes
  - Astatine-188 (188At) was recently observed decaying by proton emission.
  - Tellurium-111 (111Te) and Bismuth-185 (185Bi) are also known proton emitters.
Scientific Importance
- Helps scientists understand nuclear stability, limits of atomic structure, and explore rare and exotic nuclear phenomena.
  - It helps in astrophysics, influencing the formation of elements in stars.
  - Also helps in theoretical models that predicts how heavy elements decay.

About Astatine (At)

Astatine (At) is an extremely rare and highly radioactive element with atomic number 85.
It belongs to the halogen group (Group 17) in the periodic table
Unlike other halogens, astatine has no stable isotopes.
Features
- Highly Radioactive: All isotopes are unstable; 41 known isotopes (mass numbers 188, 190-229).
- Physical Properties: Likely a dark-colored solid; emits a blue glow due to ionizing air.
- Decay Process: 188-Astatine emits a proton, transforming into 187-polonium, which rapidly decays into 183-lead.
- Chemical Behavior: Similar to iodine, but has more metallic properties.

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