As a result of beta decay, the product nucleus is
A) one atomic number lower than the original element.
B) two atomic numbers higher than the original element.
C) one atomic number higher than the original element.
D) two atomic numbers lower than the original element.
E) four atomic numbers lower than the original element.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Beta decay involves the emission of a beta particle (an electron) from the nucleus, which results in the conversion of a neutron to a proton. This increases the atomic number by one unit while the mass number remains the same, hence the product nucleus will have one atomic number higher than the original element.

As a Result of Beta Decay, the Product Nucleus Is