When a nucleus undergoes radioactive decay, the new atomic number ________
I. can be greater than the original atomic number.
II. can be the same as the original atomic number.
III. can be less than the original atomic number.
IV. must be the same as the original atomic number.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When an unstable nucleus undergoes radioactive decay, it emits particles or energy, which can result in a change in the atomic number. During alpha decay, the atomic number decreases by two, while during beta decay, the atomic number increases by one. Therefore, the new atomic number can be greater than, less than or equal to the original atomic number. Thus, option I is correct, and options II, III, and IV are incorrect.

When a Nucleus Undergoes Radioactive Decay, the New Atomic Number