What type of radiation is produced by unstable atoms undergoing decay?

The correct focus is on gamma radiation, which is produced during the decay of unstable atoms. When an unstable atom undergoes radioactive decay, it often releases energy in the form of gamma rays, which are high-energy electromagnetic radiation. This process occurs as the atom transitions to a more stable state, often accompanied by beta or alpha particles as well.

Unstable atoms, or radioisotopes, inherently decay to achieve stability, and the emissions from this process are crucial in various applications, including medical imaging and cancer treatment. Understanding that gamma radiation is specifically a product of this decay process helps to clarify its unique properties and relevance in fields that utilize radiation, such as dentistry and radiology.

While electromagnetic radiation encompasses a broad category that includes gamma rays, focusing specifically on gamma radiation highlights the particular type of energy released during radioactive decay, making it the most relevant choice in this context. Other types of radiation mentioned, such as natural and man-made radiation, describe classifications based on origin rather than the specific process of nuclear decay.