Gamma decay — Science definition
The release of a high-energy gamma ray (electromagnetic energy) from a nucleus, with no change in mass number or atomic number.
Where it is taught
- Nuclear Chemistry — Redox, Cells & Nuclear Chemistry, Physical Science: Chemistry, Grade 11
Questions using gamma decay
Problem 1
During gamma decay, the mass number and atomic number of the nucleus…
- both decrease
- both stay the same
- both increase
- only the mass number changes
Answer and explanation
both stay the same
A gamma ray carries away energy but no mass and no charge, so the mass number and atomic number are both unchanged.