What is the most likely decay for the Mn-57 nucleus?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mn-57 has an excess of neutrons, so it is most likely to undergo beta decay to convert a neutron into a proton. Positron emission, α decay, and proton emission are less likely because the nucleus would have to overcome a higher energy barrier to undergo those types of decay. γ-ray emission is not a type of radioactive decay, but may accompany beta decay or other forms of radioactive decay as a way for the nucleus to release excess energy.

What Is the Most Likely Decay for the Mn-57 Nucleus