Question

After gamma decay

• A. Nucleus will be at lower energy state
• B. Atomic number will decrease by 1 unit
• C. Mass number will decrease by 4 unit
• D. Atomic number will increase by one unit

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the realm of nuclear physics, decay processes are essential for understanding how unstable nuclei transform into more stable configurations. Among these processes, gamma decay is particularly notable. Let's delve into what happens during gamma decay:

Gamma Decay: Gamma decay involves the emission of gamma rays, which are high-energy photons, from an excited nuclear state. It typically occurs after a nucleus undergoes alpha or beta decay, leaving it in an excited state. The nucleus releases energy in the form of gamma radiation, descending to a lower energy state without changing the number of protons or neutrons.

Given the question and options, let's examine the implications:

1. Option: Nucleus will be at lower energy state: As gamma decay results in the loss of energy and emission of photons, this option is correct. It accurately describes the outcome of gamma decay, where the nucleus transitions to a more stable, lower energy state.
2. Option: Atomic number will decrease by 1 unit: This is incorrect. Gamma decay does not affect the atomic number; it remains unchanged as no protons are added or removed.
3. Option: Mass number will decrease by 4 unit: This is incorrect. Mass number changes occur in alpha decay, not gamma decay.
4. Option: Atomic number will increase by one unit: This is incorrect, as it describes beta decay, where a neutron turns into a proton.

The correct answer is that the nucleus will be at a lower energy state after gamma decay, as the energy of the nucleus decreases while emitting gamma radiation.