Question

How is a stable atom different from an unstable
atom?

Answer 1

Answer: A stable electron has all the electrons that it needs, whereas an unstable isotope does not.

Explanation: A stable isotope does not decay and therefore, maintains a constant concentration on Earth. An unstable isotope, also known as a radioactive isotope, decays at a predictable and measurable rate on Earth.

Answer 2

An atom is stable if the forces among the particles that makeup the nucleus are balanced. An atom is unstable (radioactive) if these forces are unbalanced; if the nucleus has an excess of internal energy. Instability of an atom's nucleus may result from an excess of either neutrons or protons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hope it helps!