Which option correctly compares beta decay and gamma decay?(1 point) 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 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 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. Beta decay is a form of nuclear fission, but gamma decay is not.

1 answer

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: This process involves the emission of beta particles (electrons or positrons) from a nuclear unstable atom, resulting in a transformation of the atom into a different element or isotope.
  • Gamma Decay: This involves the emission of gamma rays (high-energy electromagnetic radiation) from an atom, which usually occurs after alpha or beta decay. Gamma decay does not change the atomic or mass number; it primarily reduces the energy level of the nucleus.
  • Nuclear Fission: This is a separate process that involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei along with the release of energy, and it is not the nature of either beta or gamma decay.