radioactivity
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radioactivity
The property of unstable atomic nuclei to transform spontaneously while releasing energy. In this process, ionizing radiation, such as alpha, beta, or gamma radiation, is emitted.
Nach dem Reaktorunfall wurde in der Umgebung eine erhöhte Radioaktivität gemessen.
After the reactor accident, increased radioactivity was measured in the surrounding area.
The word is made up of 'Radio-' (from Latin radius, 'ray') and 'Aktivität' (activity). So it literally describes a kind of 'radiation activity'. The ending '-ität' forms an abstract noun from the adjective 'radioaktiv' (radioactive).
Die Radioaktivität des Materials war unerwartet hoch.
The radioactivity of the material was unexpectedly high.
'Radioaktivität' (radioactivity) is an uncountable noun (singulare tantum). It is used like a mass noun, such as water or air, and therefore usually has no plural.
Man kann Radioaktivität nicht sehen oder riechen.
You cannot see or smell radioactivity.
This word is a technical term from physics and is used mainly in scientific, technical, or safety-related contexts.
Der Experte erklärte die Gefahren durch Radioaktivität.
The expert explained the dangers caused by radioactivity.
Common combinations are 'Radioaktivität messen' (to measure radioactivity), 'Radioaktivität freisetzen' (to release radioactivity), or 'sich vor Radioaktivität schützen' (to protect oneself from radioactivity). It is often combined with adjectives such as 'hoch' (high), 'gering' (low), or 'erhöht' (increased).
Die Messgeräte zeigten eine leicht erhöhte Radioaktivität an.
The measuring devices indicated slightly increased radioactivity.
radiation
Strahlung is the energy emitted as waves or particles. Radioaktivität, by contrast, is the property of unstable atomic nuclei that causes them to transform and release ionizing radiation. In a measurement, Strahlung therefore refers to what is emitted, while Radioaktivität refers to the property of the material.
An dem Material im alten Behälter wurde Radioaktivität festgestellt.
Radioactivity was detected in the material inside the old container.
Neben dem alten Behälter wurde ionisierende Strahlung gemessen.
Ionizing radiation was measured next to the old container.
