A radioactive atom decays by emitting a γ\gammaγ-ray (gamma photon). Which row is correct?
| Where the decay occurs | What happens to the element's identity | |
|---|---|---|
| A | the nucleus of the atom | it remains the same element |
| B | the nucleus of the atom | it becomes a different element |
| C | the electron shells of the atom | it remains the same element |
| D | the electron shells of the atom | it becomes a different element |
Row A
Row B
Row C
Row D
484 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2 Radioactivity, covering 5.2.1 Background radiation and measuring count rate, 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission, 5.2.2b Deflection and ionising effects of nuclear radiation, 5.2.3a Radioactive decay, 5.2.3b Effects of decay on the nucleus and decay equations, 5.2.4a Half-life, 5.2.4b Choosing isotopes for applications, and 5.2.5 Effects of ionising radiation and safety precautions. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.