The decay constant of the end product of a radioactive series is

Options

A. zero
B. infinite
C. finite (non zero)
D. depends on the end product

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the decay constant of the end product of a radioactive series, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Concept of Decay Constant
The decay constant (λ) is a measure of the rate at which a radioactive substance decays. It is defined as the probability per unit time that a nucleus will decay.

**Hint:** Remember that the decay constant is related to the stability of the radioactive substance.

### Step 2: Identify the End Product
In a radioactive decay series, the end product is the final stable isotope that results from a series of decays. This end product does not undergo further decay.

**Hint:** Think about what happens to a substance that is stable and does not decay.

### Step 3: Analyze the Stability of the End Product
Since the end product does not decay further, it means that its decay rate is zero. The decay rate is directly related to the decay constant. If there is no decay, the decay constant must be zero.

**Hint:** Consider what it means for a substance to be stable in terms of its decay characteristics.

### Step 4: Conclude the Value of the Decay Constant
Since the end product of a radioactive series is stable and does not decay, we conclude that the decay constant (λ) for the end product is 0.

**Hint:** Reflect on the relationship between decay and stability to arrive at the conclusion.

### Final Answer
The decay constant of the end product of a radioactive series is **0**.