› [ I ] specialized physics If a radioactive substance decays, it changes to a different form, producing radiation:
As the actinium-225 decays, it gives off short-lived, highly energized alpha particles.
More examples
- Floating in the dirty river were dead fish, already starting to decay.
- The bacteria live on food particles and produce acid that decays the enamel on your teeth.
- The flesh on a dead body decays very rapidly.
- It's sad to watch a beautiful rose wither and decay in such a short time.
- Plants and animals decay into the soil, replenishing the minerals and nutrients.
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
Vous pouvez aussi trouver des mots, expressions apparentés et synonymes dans les thèmes :
C2 the process of decaying:
environmental/industrial/moral/urban decay
› specialized physics the process by which a radioactive substance changes to a different form, producing radiation:
the decay rate of beryllium-7
More examples
- Many children come to us with severe dental decay.
- Unemployment and inner city decay are inseparable issues which must be tackled together.
- Sugar is a major cause of tooth decay.
- The mansion had an atmosphere of genteel elegance and decay.
- Areas of the most serious urban decay are to receive funds for new building and redevelopment schemes.
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
