Question detail
What is the definition of radioactive 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. The process in which an unstable nucleus emits radiation.
- B. The time taken for the count rate to fall to half its initial value.
- C. The unwanted presence of radioactive atoms on an object.
- D. The exposure to ionising radiation from a radioactive source.
Answer
The correct answer is A: The process in which an unstable nucleus emits radiation..
Explanation
The correct answer is A: The process in which an unstable nucleus emits radiation.. This supports the learning objective "Explain that gamma emission does not change mass number or atomic number." 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: The time taken for the count rate to fall to half its initial value.; The unwanted presence of radioactive atoms on an object.; The exposure to ionising radiation from a radioactive source..
Common mistake
Gamma Emission Misunderstanding
Students often think that gamma emission changes the mass number or atomic number of an atom.
Remember that gamma emission is a form of electromagnetic radiation that does not affect the mass number or atomic number; it only releases energy.
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