Nuclear Decay Practice

What is the symbol for Alpha decay?

• α

• β

• γ

• δ

Answer explanation

Alpha decay is represented by the symbol α. This process involves the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, from the nucleus of an atom.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What particle is emitted during Beta decay?

• Neutron

• Proton

• Electron

• Photon

Answer explanation

During Beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton and emits an electron. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Electron', as it is the particle that is emitted during this process.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Gamma decay requires a minimum material to stop it. Which material is it?

• Paper

• Aluminum

• Lead

• Water

Answer explanation

Gamma decay is highly penetrating and requires dense materials to stop it. Lead is the most effective among the options listed, as it has a high atomic number and density, making it suitable for shielding against gamma radiation.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What is the minimum material needed to stop Alpha decay?

• Paper

• Aluminum

• Lead

• Steel

Answer explanation

Alpha particles can be stopped by a few sheets of paper, as they have low penetration power. Therefore, paper is the minimum material needed to effectively stop Alpha decay.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Fill in the blank: The emitted particle in Alpha decay is a ____.

• Neutron

• Proton

• Helium nucleus

• Electron

Answer explanation

In alpha decay, an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, which is essentially a helium nucleus (2 protons and 2 neutrons). Therefore, the correct answer is 'Helium nucleus'.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which decay type does not change the atomic number of the element?

• Alpha

• Beta

• Gamma

• Delta

Answer explanation

Gamma decay involves the emission of gamma rays and does not change the atomic number or mass of the element. In contrast, alpha and beta decay alter the atomic number, making gamma the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Fill in the blank: The emitted particle in Gamma decay is a ____.

• Neutron

• Proton

• Helium nucleus

• Photon(Light)

Answer explanation

In Gamma decay, the nucleus releases energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation, specifically a photon. This distinguishes it from other types of decay, which involve particles like neutrons or protons.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which type of decay is the most penetrating?

• Alpha

• Beta

• Gamma

• Delta

Answer explanation

Gamma decay is the most penetrating type of radiation. Unlike alpha and beta particles, which can be stopped by paper or a few millimeters of aluminum, gamma rays can penetrate through several centimeters of lead or concrete.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Fill in the blank: The symbol for Alpha decay is ____.

• α

• β

• γ

• δ

Answer explanation

The symbol for Alpha decay is α. This symbol represents the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, commonly associated with the decay of heavy elements.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What changes take place in the nucleus when a Beta particle is emitted?

• The nucleus loses 1 neutron and gains 1 proton

• The nucleus gains 1 neutron and loses 1 proton

• The nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons

• The nucleus gains 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Answer explanation

When a beta particle is emitted, a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton, resulting in the nucleus losing 1 neutron and gaining 1 proton. This process increases the atomic number by 1.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8