Radioactive Decay Quiz

What happens during radioactive decay?

• The nucleus of a radioactive atom emits radiation

• The nucleus of a radioactive atom combines with another atom

• The nucleus of a radioactive atom absorbs radiation

• The nucleus of a radioactive atom splits into two

What is the process in which unstable nuclei of radioactive atoms become stable by emitting charged particles and energy called?

• Chemical reaction

• Radioactive decay

• Nuclear fission

• Nuclear fusion

Which type of decay changes the number of protons in an atom's nucleus, thereby changing the atom to a different element?

• All of the above

• Gamma decay

• Beta decay

• Alpha decay

What type of radiation is emitted during alpha decay?

• Gamma ray

• Neutron

• Beta particle

• Alpha particle

If the radioactive element polonium (Po) undergoes alpha decay, what element does it become?

• Uranium (U)

• Oxygen (O)

• Hydrogen (H)

• Lead (Pb)

Which type of decay can travel thousands of meters through air and penetrate and damage cells deep inside the body?

• None of the above

• Alpha decay

• Beta decay

• Gamma decay

Which type of decay is the least damaging?

• Alpha decay

• Beta decay

• Gamma decay

• All types of decay are equally damaging