Scientists Detect Proton Emission in Rare Astatine-188 Isotope at University of Jyväskylä

10 Jun 2025

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.
  • Proton EmissionWhy 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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