Describe the process of beta-minus decay. What happens to the mass number and atomic number when alpha, beta, and gamma decay occurs?

In beta-minus decay, a neutron decays into a proton plus an electron. For alpha decay, the mass number decreases by 4 and the atomic number decreases by 2. For beta-minus decay, the mass number remains the same but the atomic number increases due to the proton. For gamma radiation, mass and atomic number do not change.

IC
Answered by Isabelle C. Physics tutor

12155 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the process of nuclear fission.


A train accelerates from 10 m/s to 50 m/s in 20 seconds. Calculate the Acceleration


The teacher quickly inverts the can containing boiling water into a bowl of cold water, as shown in the diagram. When the can is inverted in the cold water, the can collapses. Use ideas about particles and pressure to explain why the can collapses.


What is the difference between alpha and gamma radiation?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning