The value of energy of activation for radio active decay is

Options

A. high
B. low
C. zero
D. moderate

Explanation

To determine the value of the energy of activation for radioactive decay, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand Radioactive Decay
Radioactive decay is a process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. This process is random and follows a specific statistical pattern.

**Hint:** Remember that radioactive decay is a spontaneous process that does not require an external energy input.

### Step 2: Identify the Kinetics of Radioactive Decay
Radioactive decay is characterized by first-order kinetics. In first-order reactions, the rate of decay is directly proportional to the amount of substance that remains.

**Hint:** First-order kinetics means that the rate constant (k) is related to the concentration of the reactant.

### Step 3: Relate Activation Energy to First-Order Kinetics
In chemical kinetics, the activation energy (Ea) is the minimum energy required for a reaction to occur. For first-order reactions, particularly for processes like radioactive decay, the energy of activation is typically very low.

**Hint:** Think about how radioactive decay occurs spontaneously without the need for additional energy.

### Step 4: Conclude the Value of Activation Energy
For radioactive decay, the energy of activation is considered to be almost zero. This is because the decay process does not require a significant amount of energy to proceed.

**Hint:** Consider the nature of radioactive decay as a natural process that occurs without any external influence.

### Final Answer
The value of the energy of activation for radioactive decay is **zero**.