Which of the following types of nuclear changes is a form of induced transmutation ?
-alpha decay
-fission
- Beta decay
-gamma decay
I’m guessing either c or d
the element is determined by the number of protons in the nucleus.
C and D do not affect that.
So what does?
B. Fission?
To determine which type of nuclear change is a form of induced transmutation among the given options, we need to understand the definitions of these processes.
1. Alpha Decay: In alpha decay, an unstable atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. This process occurs spontaneously and is not considered an induced transmutation.
2. Fission: Nuclear fission is a process where a heavy atomic nucleus, such as uranium-235, is split into two or more lighter nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. Fission can occur spontaneously or be induced through the bombardment of a target nucleus with a neutron. Therefore, fission is a form of induced transmutation.
3. Beta Decay: In beta decay, an unstable atomic nucleus emits a beta particle, which can be either an electron (beta minus decay) or a positron (beta plus decay), along with a neutrino or antineutrino. Beta decay can occur spontaneously or be induced by altering the neutron-to-proton ratio in the nucleus. Therefore, beta decay is also a form of induced transmutation.
4. Gamma Decay: Gamma decay, also known as gamma emission, is the release of gamma radiation from an excited atomic nucleus. It occurs after other nuclear transformations, such as alpha or beta decay. Gamma decay is not considered an induced transmutation as it is a consequence of previous nuclear changes.
From the given options, both fission and beta decay are forms of induced transmutation. Therefore, the correct answer is either option B (fission) or option C (beta decay).