Final answer:
Radioactive decay is a process in which an unstable atomic nucleus emits energetic particles and/or radiation. It is used in various medical applications, such as cancer therapy, radiometric dating, and diagnostics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemistry: Radioactive Decay and Medical Applications
Radioactive decay is a process in which an unstable atomic nucleus emits energetic particles and/or radiation. It is used in various medical applications, such as cancer therapy, radiometric dating, and diagnostics. For example, radioactive isotopes like cobalt-60 can emit focused gamma rays to treat cancer.