Daughter isotope

A daughter isotope is the stable or radioactive atom that forms when a radioactive parent isotope undergoes decay. During this process, the parent atom changes its internal structure, often by releasing particles or energy, transforming into a different element or isotope known as the daughter. This concept is fundamental in radiometric dating, where scientists measure the ratio of parent to daughter isotopes in a sample to determine how old it is. The decay process proceeds at a predictable rate, allowing researchers to estimate the age of rocks, fossils, or other materials.