Which option correctly compares beta decay and gamma decay?(1 point)

Question

Responses

Beta decay only reduces the energy level, while gamma decay releases a particle. Gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission, but beta decay is not.
Beta decay only reduces the energy level, while gamma decay releases a particle. Gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission, but beta decay is not.

Beta decay only reduces the energy level, while gamma decay releases a particle. Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission.
Beta decay only reduces the energy level, while gamma decay releases a particle. Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission.

Beta decay releases a particle, while gamma decay only reduces the energy level. Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission.
Beta decay releases a particle, while gamma decay only reduces the energy level. Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission.

Beta decay releases a particle, while gamma decay only reduces the energy level. Beta decay is a form of nuclear fission, but gamma decay is not.
Beta decay releases a particle, while gamma decay only reduces the energy level. Beta decay is a form of nuclear fission, but gamma decay is not.

Answer 1

The correct option is:

Beta decay releases a particle, while gamma decay only reduces the energy level. Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission.

Explanation:

• Beta Decay: In beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, which results in the emission of a beta particle (electron or positron). This process changes the atomic number of the element, transforming it into a different element.

• Gamma Decay: Gamma decay involves the emission of gamma radiation (high-energy photons) from an excited nucleus. It does not change the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus but rather helps the nucleus to reach a lower energy state.

• Nuclear Fission: Neither beta decay nor gamma decay is a form of nuclear fission. Nuclear fission involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei, usually accompanied by the release of a significant amount of energy.