In a balanced nuclear reaction, which statement is consistent with the release of a beta particle?
A) The identity of the atom does not change.
B) All radioactive decay releases a beta particle.
C) The mass number decreases by 4.
D) The atomic number increases by 1.
E) The atomic number decreases by 1.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a beta particle (an electron) is emitted from a nucleus during radioactive decay, a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, which increases the atomic number by 1. This process does not change the mass number of the atom.

In a Balanced Nuclear Reaction, Which Statement Is Consistent with the Release