radioactive
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radioactive
Having the property of certain atomic nuclei to transform spontaneously while emitting ionizing radiation, such as alpha, beta, or gamma radiation.
Uran ist ein bekanntes radioaktives Element.
Uranium is a well-known radioactive element.
The word is made up of 'Radio-' (relating to radiation) and 'aktiv' (active). So it literally means 'radiation-active'.
Nach dem Unfall wurde eine radioaktive Wolke freigesetzt.
After the accident, a radioactive cloud was released.
'radioaktiv' (radioactive) is usually combined with nouns from physics and environmental technology. Typical examples are 'radioaktiver Abfall' (radioactive waste), 'radioaktives Material' (radioactive material), or 'radioaktive Strahlung' (radioactive radiation). It is often combined with adverbs such as 'schwach' (weakly) or 'stark' (strongly/highly).
Die Entsorgung von radioaktivem Abfall ist ein großes Problem.
The disposal of radioactive waste is a major problem.
Although 'radioaktiv' (radioactive) is a technical term from physics, it is very common in the news and in everyday language, especially when nuclear energy or environmental issues are involved.
Die Behörden warnten vor radioaktiver Kontamination des Gebiets.
The authorities warned of radioactive contamination of the area.
radiant / radioactive
Both words can be used for a material associated with radiation, but they emphasize different aspects. „Radioaktiv“ describes a property of certain atomic nuclei, whereas „strahlend“ describes the emission of radioactive radiation. Use „radioaktiv“ for the cause or property and „strahlend“ for the observed process.
Das Gestein ist radioaktiv und besitzt deshalb instabile Atomkerne.
The rock is radioactive and therefore contains unstable atomic nuclei.
Im Messbericht steht, dass das Gestein strahlend ist und radioaktive Strahlung aussendet.
The report states that the rock is emitting radioactive radiation.
