Question detail
What is the primary change in the nucleus of an atom during 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. A proton is lost
- B. A neutron is converted into a proton
- C. A proton is converted into a neutron
- D. Two protons are added
Answer
The correct answer is B: A neutron is converted into a proton.
Explanation
The correct answer is B: A neutron is converted into a proton. 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: A proton is lost; A proton is converted into a neutron; Two protons are added.
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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