With only two exceptions, if a nucleus contains fewer ______________ than ______________, it is unstable.
A) protons; neutrons
B) neutrons; protons
C) protons; alpha particles
D) protons; beta particles

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nuclei with fewer neutrons than protons are generally unstable. The stability of a nucleus is determined by the balance between the number of protons and neutrons. Neutrons play a crucial role in adding stability to the nucleus by mitigating the electrostatic repulsion between protons.

With Only Two Exceptions, If a Nucleus Contains Fewer ______________