The neutron/proton ratio in an isotope can be decreased by the emission of

.The ratio of neutrons to protons (n/p) is a successful way in predicting nuclear stability. This ratio is close to 1 for atoms of elements with low atomic numbers (of less than about 20 protons). The n/p ratio steadily increases as the atomic number increases past element 20 (calcium) to about element 84 (polonium).