Which statement describes what happens to elements during radioactive decay 1) they release energy 2) they gain new particles 3) they lose energy at a varying rate 4) they have consistent number of particles

3) they lose energy at a varying rate

radioactive 'decay', means that will be losing energy (decaying), and depending on the element, the decay rate will vary.

hope this helps

3) they lose energy at a varying rate - is the correct answer.

Radioactive decay is defined as the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses its energy by emitting radiations. The decay is random and cannot be predicted earlier.