What particle is emitted when ²⁰Na decays to ²⁰Ne? (atomic numbers of Na and Ne are,respectively,11 and 10) A)alpha B)beta (electron) C)beta (positron) D)gamma quantum

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The change in atomic number from 11 (Na) to 10 (Ne) indicates that a beta decay has occurred. In beta decay, either an electron (beta-negative) or a positron (beta-positive) is emitted. Since the atomic number has decreased, an electron must have been emitted, making choice C the correct answer. Alpha particles have a charge of +2 and are typically emitted from nuclei with a very high atomic number, while gamma rays are high-energy photons and do not change the identity of the nucleus.

What Particle Is Emitted When 20Na Decays to 20Ne? (Atomic

What Particle Is Emitted When ²⁰Na Decays to ²⁰Ne? (Atomic