Here's why:

* Radioactive decay is the process where an unstable atomic nucleus spontaneously transforms into a different nucleus, releasing energy and subatomic particles in the process.

* Minerals can be composed of radioactive isotopes, which are atoms of an element with an unstable nucleus.

* The subatomic particles released during radioactive decay can include alpha particles (helium nuclei), beta particles (electrons or positrons), and gamma rays (high-energy photons).

Example: Uranium is a radioactive element found in some minerals. It undergoes radioactive decay, transforming into other elements and releasing alpha particles and gamma rays.