When the nucleus of an atom emits a beta particle, the atom's atomic number
A)decreases.
B)remains unchanged.
C)increases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the nucleus of an atom emits a beta particle, a neutron is converted into a proton and an electron. The proton remains in the nucleus, while the electron, which has a negative charge, is ejected from the atom. Therefore, the atomic number of the atom increases by one, as it now has one more proton in its nucleus.

When the Nucleus of an Atom Emits a Beta Particle