While the moment in time at which a particular nucleus decays is unpredictable, a collection of atoms of a radioactive nuclide decays exponentially at a rate described by a parameter known as the half-life, usually given in units of years when discussing dating techniques.
DEFINITION of 'Attachment'. A legal term referring to the action of seizing property in anticipation of a favorable ruling for a plaintiff who claims to be owed money by the defendant. Next Up.
The legal process of seizing property to ensure satisfaction of a judgment. The document by which a court orders such a seizure may be called a writ of attachment or an order of attachment. Originally, the main purpose of attachment was to coerce a defendant into appearing in court and answering the plaintiff's claim.