Which type of radioactive decay does not change the atomic number?

A Alpha decay

B Beta-minus decay

C Gamma decay

D Beta-plus decay

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Gamma decay emits high-energy photons without changing the number of protons or neutrons — only the energy state changes.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Which type of radioactive decay does not change the atomic number?" is Option C: Gamma decay.

The other options — A) Alpha decay, B) Beta-minus decay, D) Beta-plus decay — are incorrect for this MCAT Exam Prep question. As explained above: Gamma decay emits high-energy photons without changing the number of protons or neutrons — only the energy state changes.

📚 About This MCAT Exam Prep Practice Question

This 1-level MCAT Exam Prep question from the Chemical & Physical Foundations topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free MCAT Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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Which type of radioactive decay does not change the atomic number?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

📚 About This MCAT Exam Prep Practice Question

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