When an unstable nucleus emits a beta particle ________.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When an unstable nucleus emits a beta particle, a neutron inside the nucleus is converted into a proton and an electron. The electron is then ejected from the nucleus as a beta particle. The proton remains in the nucleus, increasing its atomic number by one unit. As the number of protons is the defining characteristic of an element, the identity of the nucleus is changed, and a new element is formed with an atomic number increased by one unit. The mass number remains the same, as the mass of a beta particle is negligible compared to the mass of a nucleus.

When an Unstable Nucleus Emits a Beta Particle ________