Which statement best describes the type of radioactive decay shown in the model?
(1 point)
Responses
The model shows alpha decay, which is a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows alpha decay, which is a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows beta decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows beta decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows beta decay, which is a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows beta decay, which is a type of nuclear fission.
The model shows alpha decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission.
The statement "The model shows alpha decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission" best describes the type of radioactive decay shown in the model.
To determine which statement best describes the type of radioactive decay shown in the model, we need to understand the characteristics of alpha decay and beta decay.
In alpha decay, an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. This emission reduces the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4. Alpha decay does not involve nuclear fission, which is the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two smaller nuclei.
On the other hand, in beta decay, an unstable nucleus emits a beta particle, which can be either an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). Beta decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton (beta-minus decay) or a proton into a neutron (beta-plus decay). This emission does not affect the mass number but changes the atomic number.
Now, let's reexamine the statements:
1. "The model shows alpha decay, which is a type of nuclear fission."
This statement is incorrect because alpha decay is not a type of nuclear fission.
2. "The model shows beta decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission."
This statement is accurate. Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay, but it is not a type of nuclear fission.
3. "The model shows beta decay, which is a type of nuclear fission."
This statement is incorrect because beta decay is not a type of nuclear fission.
4. "The model shows alpha decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission."
This statement is accurate. Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay, but it is not a type of nuclear fission.
Therefore, the most accurate statement is: "The model shows beta decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission."
The correct statement is:
The model shows alpha decay, which is not a type of nuclear fission.