$$^{129}_{53}\text{I} \$$rightarrow ^{129}$$_{54}\text{Xe} + \beta^- + \overline{\nu}_e$$

Question 1

Which of the following correctly describes the process of beta decay in a radioactive nucleus?

Accepted Answer

A neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton, emitting an electron ($$\beta^-$$ particle).

Question 2

What is the balanced nuclear equation for the beta decay of $$^{129}_{53}	ext{I}$$?

Accepted Answer

$$^{129}_{53}	ext{I} \$$rightarrow ^{129}$$_{54}	ext{Xe} + \beta^- + \overline{
u}_e$$

Question 3

Which statement best explains why beta particles have higher penetrating power than alpha particles?

Accepted Answer

Beta particles are much smaller and move faster than alpha particles.

Question 4

During beta decay, what happens to the atomic number and mass number of the parent atom?

Accepted Answer

Atomic number increases by 1; mass number remains unchanged.

Question 5

Which of the following is a characteristic of beta particles compared to alpha particles?

Accepted Answer

Beta particles can penetrate paper but are stopped by aluminum.

Question 6

A scientist is working with a radioactive isotope that emits beta particles. Which safety precaution is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Wear gloves and use a sheet of aluminum to shield the source.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the change in the nucleus during beta decay?

Accepted Answer

A neutron is converted into a proton, increasing the atomic number.

Question 8

Which particle is emitted during beta decay?

Accepted Answer

An electron ($$\beta^-$$ particle)

Question 9

If $$^{81}_{34}	ext{Se}$$ undergoes beta decay, what is the resulting daughter nucleus?

Accepted Answer

$$^{81}_{35}	ext{Br}$$

Question 10

Which of the following statements about the mass number in beta decay is correct?

Accepted Answer

The mass number does not change during beta decay.

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT a property of beta particles?

Accepted Answer

They have a mass number of 4.

Question 12

A hospital uses a beta-emitting isotope for medical imaging. Which property of beta particles makes them suitable for this application?

Accepted Answer

Their ability to penetrate tissue without causing excessive damage.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why beta decay changes the identity of an element?

Accepted Answer

The atomic number increases by one, resulting in a new element.

Question 14

Which of the following is the correct symbol for a beta particle?

Accepted Answer

$$\beta^- or$$ $$^0_{-1}e$$

Question 15

Which statement is true regarding the ability of beta particles to be blocked?

Accepted Answer

Beta particles can be blocked by a thin sheet of aluminum.

Beta Decay and Characteristics of Beta Particles

Study Guide - Practice Questions