Question detail
What happens to the mass number and atomic number of an atom during beta decay?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
What happens to the mass number and atomic number of an atom during beta decay?
Answer
During beta decay, the mass number of the atom remains unchanged, while the atomic number increases by 1.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it directly addresses the changes that occur in the nucleus during beta decay, which is a key concept in understanding nuclear reactions. The question tests the student's understanding of how beta decay affects atomic structure.
Common mistake
Understanding Beta Decay
Students often think that beta decay changes the mass number of the atom.
Remember that beta decay leaves the mass number unchanged while increasing the atomic number by 1.
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