Question

Which one of the following is not a type of radioactive decay?

• A. Alpha decay
• B. Beta decay
• C. Gamma decay
• D. Muon decay

Hint:

Radioactive decay typically involves the emission of alpha, beta, or gamma radiation from unstable nuclei. Muon decay, however, is associated with high-energy particle physics, not radioactivity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding types of radioactive decay.
Radioactive decay occurs when an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation in the form of particles or electromagnetic waves. Common types of radioactive decay are:
- (A) Alpha decay: Emission of an alpha particle (two protons and two neutrons).
- (B) Beta decay: Emission of an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay).
- (C) Gamma decay: Emission of a high-energy photon (gamma ray).
- (D) Muon decay: Muons are unstable elementary particles that decay, but they are not a type of radioactive decay. Muons are produced by cosmic rays and other high-energy processes, not by the decay of unstable nuclei.
Conclusion: Muon decay is not a type of radioactive decay.