Why does the emission of an alpha particle always result in transmutation?(1 point)ResponsesThe atom is converted to helium.The atom is converted to helium.The number of protons in the atom changes.The number of protons in the atom changes.The protons in the large atom change to neutrons.The protons in the large atom change to neutrons.Energy is released from the nucleus of the atom.

Answer 1

The correct response is: The number of protons in the atom changes.

Emission of an alpha particle results in transmutation because an alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. When an atom emits an alpha particle, it loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons, leading to a change in the element itself, which is the definition of transmutation.