What do ionizing radiations do to atoms?

Ionizing radiation has a significant impact on atoms primarily through the process of disrupting atomic stability. This type of radiation carries enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, leading to the formation of ions. When electrons are ejected from an atom, it alters the balance of protons and electrons, which can change the chemical properties of the atom and lead to the creation of highly reactive ions. The disruption of atomic stability can result in various outcomes, including chemical reactions that would not occur under stable conditions.

The other responses do not accurately describe the effects of ionizing radiation. While atomic periodic properties and atomic mass may be influenced indirectly through reactions, ionizing radiation specifically targets the electron cloud, resulting in instability rather than changing the nucleus directly or altering the atomic mass. Therefore, the key correct response highlights the essence of how ionizing radiation fundamentally alters the nature of atoms by undermining their stability.