Question detail
Which of the following statements is true about beta decay?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
- A. It decreases both mass number and atomic number
- B. It leaves mass number unchanged and increases atomic number by 1
- C. It increases both mass number and atomic number
- D. It decreases mass number by 1 and increases atomic number by 2
Answer
The correct answer is B: It leaves mass number unchanged and increases atomic number by 1.
Explanation
The correct answer is B: It leaves mass number unchanged and increases atomic number by 1. This supports the learning objective "Explain that beta decay leaves mass number unchanged and increases atomic number by 1." in Nuclear equations because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Atoms and nuclear radiation. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required Nuclear equations idea: It decreases both mass number and atomic number; It increases both mass number and atomic number; It decreases mass number by 1 and increases atomic number by 2.
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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