The decay of a nucleus is accompained by the emission of two β-particles and α-radiation. What effect (if any) does this decay have on the proton number and the nucleon number of the nucleus?
Correct answer: C. Option C
- A. Option A
- B. Option B
- C. Option C
- D. Option D
Explanation
Emission of two beta particles increases the proton number by 2 i.e. after each beta decay, proton number increases by 1. The nucleon number remains unchanged. After an alpha decay, emission of an alpha particle i.e. helium nucleus, the proton number decreases by 2 and the nucleon number decreases by 4. Hence, the net effect would be the proton number being unchanged and a decrease in the nucleon number.
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Atomic nuclei contain protons and neutrons, with nuclear size, mass defect and binding energy describing their stability. The work covers alpha, beta and gamma decay, decay equations, half-life and decay rate, along with radiation safety and medical applications such as imaging, radiotherapy and tracers.
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