Rankers Physics

Nucleus: Practice Problem & Solution

What happens to the mass number and atomic number of an element when it emits $\gamma$-radiation? (2020-Covid)
Mass number and atomic number remain unchanged.
Mass number remains unchanged while atomic number decreases by one
Mass number increases by four and atomic number increases by two
Mass number decreases by four and atomic number decreases by two

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Nucleus. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Gamma radiation involves the emission of high-energy photons when a nucleus transitions from a higher energy state to a lower one. This process does not alter the number of protons or neutrons, so the mass number and atomic number remain unchanged.

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