Question

which statement about the number of protons and neutrons in a nuclear change is correct? (1 point)
the relative numbers of protons and neutrons can differ before and after the change, but the total number of those particles remains the same.
the total atomic mass before and after the change remains the same, but the total charge is different.
the relative numbers of protons and neutrons are the same before and after the change.
the total charge before and after the change remains the same, but the total atomic mass is different.

Explanation:

In a nuclear change, mass - energy can be converted, but the total number of nucleons (protons + neutrons) is conserved. Charge is also conserved in nuclear reactions. The relative numbers of protons and neutrons can change in processes like beta - decay. The total atomic mass can change due to mass - energy conversion, but the total number of protons and neutrons combined remains the same and so does the total charge.

Answer:

The relative numbers of protons and neutrons can differ before and after the change, but the total number of those particles remains the same.