Why does the emission of an alpha particle always result in transmutation?(1 point) Responses The number of protons in the atom changes. The number of protons in the atom changes. Energy is released from the nucleus of the atom. Energy is released from the nucleus of the atom. The protons in the large atom change to neutrons. The protons in the large atom change to neutrons. The atom is converted to helium.
1 answer
The correct response is: The number of protons in the atom changes.
When an alpha particle (which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted from a nucleus, the original atom loses 2 protons. This change in the number of protons results in the atom being transformed into a different element, which is the essence of transmutation.
