TEAS 7 science study guide free Related

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What are the two main types of nuclear decay, and what differentiates them?

  • A. Fission and fusion, based on the size of the nucleus
  • B. Alpha and beta decay, based on the emitted particle
  • C. Spontaneous and induced decay, based on the trigger
  • D. Isotope decay and chain reactions, based on the stability of the nucleus
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The two main types of nuclear decay are alpha and beta decay, which are differentiated based on the emitted particle. In alpha decay, an alpha particle (consisting of two protons and two neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus, while in beta decay, a beta particle (either an electron or a positron) is emitted. These decay types are distinguished by the particles they emit, not by the size of the nucleus, trigger, or stability of the nucleus. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because fission, fusion, spontaneous, induced, isotope decay, and chain reactions are different processes in nuclear physics and do not represent the two main types of nuclear decay based on emitted particles.