Understanding Nuclear Stability and Radiation

What is the primary reason for a nucleus to be unstable?

• Excessive atomic mass

• Lack of electrons

• An unfavorable combination of protons and neutrons

• Too many electrons

What does the term 'radioactive' describe?

• The color of an atom

• The stability of an atom

• The condition of the nucleus

• The size of an atom

Which of the following is NOT a form of nuclear radiation?

• Beta particles

• Delta waves

• Alpha particles

• Gamma rays

What happens during alpha particle decay?

• The nucleus gains two protons and two neutrons

• The nucleus releases two protons and two neutrons

• The nucleus absorbs energy

• The nucleus releases an electron

What is the symbol used to represent an alpha particle?

• 0/-1 e

• 0/0 γ

• 1/1 H

• 4/2 He

In beta particle decay, what transformation occurs in the nucleus?

• A neutron changes into an electron

• An electron changes into a proton

• A neutron changes into a proton

• A proton changes into a neutron

What is released during beta particle decay?

• A neutron

• A proton

• An electron

• A gamma ray

What characterizes gamma radiation?

• It involves the release of electrons

• It involves the release of high-energy waves

• It involves the release of neutrons

• It involves the release of protons

Does gamma radiation change the element of the nucleus?

• No, it does not change the element

• No, it only adds neutrons

• Yes, it adds protons

• Yes, it changes the element

What is the purpose of an atom releasing gamma radiation?

• To increase its mass

• To become more stable

• To change its element

• To gain electrons