Name the types of ionizing radiation emitted during the decay of a radioisotope.

The correct answer identifies alpha particles, beta particles, gamma radiation, and x-rays as the types of ionizing radiation emitted during the decay of a radioisotope. These forms of radiation have enough energy to ionize atoms and molecules, which is a defining characteristic of ionizing radiation.

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, essentially making them helium nuclei. They are often emitted during alpha decay, a common decay process for heavy radioisotopes. Beta particles are electrons (or positrons) emitted during beta decay, which occurs when a neutron transforms into a proton or vice versa. Gamma radiation consists of high-energy photons released during nuclear decay and often accompanies alpha or beta decay, serving to help the nucleus reach a more stable state. X-rays, although typically associated with electron interactions, can also be produced in nuclear processes.

The other options incorrectly include forms of radiation that do not meet the definitions outlined above. For instance, microwaves and infrared radiation are forms of electromagnetic radiation but are not classified as ionizing radiation because they lack the energy necessary to ionize atoms. Ultraviolet light, while having higher energy than visible light, is also not a type of radiation emitted directly during the decay of radioisotopes and typically