Which of the following changes when gamma radiation is released?
A) atomic number
B) number of protons
C) number of electrons
D) number of neutrons
E) energy of the isotope

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that has no mass and no charge. Therefore, it does not affect the atomic number, number of protons, number of electrons or number of neutrons of the isotope that emits it. However, gamma radiation is emitted when the nucleus releases excess energy in order to reach a more stable state. This means that the energy of the isotope decreases, which is reflected in a change in its energy level or state. Therefore, the correct answer is E, energy of the isotope.

Which of the Following Changes When Gamma Radiation Is Released