P7-changes in the nucleus Flashcards
1
Q
What is an isotope?
A
Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
2
Q
How does the nucleus of an atom change when it alpha decays?
A
It loses -2 atomic number (2 protons) and -4 atomic mass (2 protons and 2 neutrons)
3
Q
How does the nucleus of an atom change when it beta decays?
A
It gains a proton as a neutron emits an electron and becomes a proton.(+1 atomic
number, atomic mass remains the same)
4
Q
How does the nucleus of an atom change when it gamma decays?
A
As gamma radiation is electromagnetic radiation it doesn’t change atoms atomic
number or atomic mass
