Understanding Nuclear Decay

What happens to the atomic number of an atom during alpha decay?

• The atomic number remains the same.

• The atomic number decreases by 2.

• The atomic number increases by 2.

• The atomic number decreases by 1.

Which type of radiation involves the emission of high-energy photons?

• Gamma radiation

• X-ray radiation

• Beta radiation

• Alpha radiation

What happens to an atom's nucleus after it releases an alpha particle?

• The nucleus remains unchanged and continues to exist as the same element.

• The nucleus gains 2 protons and becomes a heavier element.

• The nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei without changing its element.

• The nucleus becomes a new element with 2 fewer protons and 4 fewer nucleons.

In nuclear decay, what is the primary reason for an unstable nucleus to emit radiation?

• To achieve stability by releasing excess energy or particles.

• To increase the mass of the nucleus.

• To absorb more energy from the environment.

• To create new elements without any energy loss.

Which subatomic particle defines the identity of an element?

• Photon

• Electron

• Neutron

• Proton

What is emitted during beta decay?

• Beta particles (electrons or positrons) and neutrinos/antineutrinos

• Alpha particles and gamma rays

• Photons and X-rays

• Protons and neutrons

How does gamma radiation differ from alpha and beta radiation?

• Gamma radiation is electromagnetic, has no mass or charge, and is more penetrating than alpha (helium nuclei) and beta (electrons/positrons) radiation.

• Beta radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation like gamma radiation.

• Alpha radiation is more penetrating than gamma radiation.

• Gamma radiation consists of heavy particles with a positive charge.

What is the effect of neutron emission on the atomic mass of an atom?

• Neutron emission converts neutrons into protons, increasing atomic mass.

• Neutron emission increases the atomic mass of an atom.

• Neutron emission has no effect on the atomic mass of an atom.

• Neutron emission decreases the atomic mass of an atom.

What type of decay results in the transformation of a neutron into a proton?

• Alpha decay

• Beta decay (beta minus decay)

• Gamma decay

• Positron emission

What is the main characteristic of a stable nucleus?

• A balanced ratio of protons to neutrons.

• A high energy state of the nucleus.

• A random arrangement of nucleons.

• An excess of neutrons compared to protons.