A radioisotope which is neutron poor and very heavy is most likely to decay by
A)alpha emission,electron capture,or positron emission.
B)only alpha emission.
C)only electron capture.
D)only positron emission.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A neutron-poor and heavy radioisotope is likely to decay by either alpha emission, electron capture, or positron emission as these are the pathways of radioactive decay that stabilize the nucleus by decreasing the neutron-to-proton ratio. Alpha emission involves the emission of an alpha particle (a helium nucleus), electron capture involves capturing an electron from the inner shell of the atom, and positron emission involves the emission of a positron (a positively charged electron). Therefore, choice A is the best answer as it covers all the possible pathways for decay.

A Radioisotope Which Is Neutron Poor and Very Heavy Is