Question

From the list below, which items describe beta decay? Check all that apply. APEX

A. An atom is very stable
B. An atom has many more neutrons than electrons
C. A neutron turns into a proton
D. An electron is ejected from the nucleus

Answer 1

Answer:

C. A neutron turns into a proton

D. An electron is ejected from the nucleus

Explanation:

• Beta decay is a type of the three major types of decays, others being alpha decay and gamma decay.
• During a beta decay the atomic number of an atom increases by one while the mass number remains the same.
• Beta decay may be classified as; an electron emission, positron emission and electron capture.
• During electron emission an energetic electron is emitted from the nucleus, together with an antineutrino and a neutron in the nucleus turns into a proton.